Press for this production

‘Onwere’s exquisitely descriptive language and spirited performance aids us in creating a total picture of the wild scenes to come. Supported by subtle light changes and a carefully crafted soundscape, the real work is being done by Onwere’s words and performance. High paced, impressively physical with humorous collaboration with DJ Tommy Tappah, Deptford Baby crafted a whole new universe for the audience to delve into.’ A Young(ish) Persepective 

‘Jack Studio is a gem among south London theatres and is well suited to host smaller productions like this one… Chukwudi Onwere, star and writer, brings boundless physicality to the role. As he cotches on the high street, we are vibing; as he throws himself around the stage, we are swept underwater with him; and as he hunches, gagging inside a fish (just go with it) we can almost smell the stench. His performance is timed to lighting and sound cues, helping transport us between locations. A shout out to designers Carey Chomsoonthorn and DJ Tommy Tappah. The whole thing is one big love letter to Deptford…

Ultimately, it is a family-friendly journey of discovering that bravery lives within all of us, in many forms, and we can help each other find it. In the face of adversity and selfdoubt, some may find strength in Deptford’s slogan: See it, Fight it, Restore your community.‘ Fairy Powered Productions

‘Myths and Legends meets gig-theatre inChukwudi Onwere’s one-man play, Deptford Baby, and I am here for it! The talented storyteller takes us back to 90s Deptford… before unexpectedly plunging us into an underwater adventure… Onwere has packed his piece with delightful metaphoric language, and alliterations which I loved.

The rich writing alone is a masterclass in writing a novel, while his storytelling is vivid. It is a gift to all ages… Deptford Baby is an extraordinary tale of community and courage that will be enjoyed by all.’ Afridiziak

‘Deptford Baby is an anarchic, freewheeling, and joyous expression of local pride in the face of the rising tide of gentrification, inflected with the language of Southeast London’s community… Deptford Baby is a successful ode to community strength and resilience in the face of larger forces, that is both thought-provoking and funny.’ Spy in the Stalls

‘Chukwudi Onwere is a highly talented actor. In what is effectively a one-man show, he multi-roles and moves with both muscularity and delicacy…

DJ Tommy Tappah who also designed the sound, acts as on-stage stage manager, sound controller and occasional support actor and he’s very good at all that. His turn as the Deptford Cat which sees off a Pit Bull attacking a little girl is masterly.’ Susan Elkin

‘Marley-Rose Liburd’s production does well to carry that initial energy throughout… Carey Chomsoonthorn’s lighting design delivers spectacularly in its transformational power, Marc Pouani’s movement work bring subtle strength to Onwere’s physical performance and Tappah remains on-hand to provide occasional amusing support as well as the pulsing sound design.’ There Ought to be Clowns