Outlier by Malaika Kegode (paperback)

Outlier by Malaika Kegode

“The sky was painfully big, but our worlds were small, our lives little. So when we found each other in the muddle of it all, that feeling of belonging was addictive.”

Mal, Ama, Lewis and Oskar have grown up together; hedonistically charging through life – and any house party going – in rural Devon. They’re railing against the stories that have been written for them as they stand at the precipice of adulthood. But all the space can be suffocating, and it’s tough sometimes – feeling so low in a place so beautiful.

The powerful poetics of Malaika Kegode and soaring music of Bristol band Jakabol combine in this autobiographical gig-theatre show directed by Jenny Davies. The play premiered at Bristol Old Vic in June 2022.

Genre-defying and emotional, Outlier explores the impact of isolation, addiction and friendship on young people in the often-forgotten places.

★ ★ ★ ★
“the spirit of Kerouac reaches the West Country in superb drama”
The Guardian

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Stark, touching, witty… it is nothing short of brilliant”
Stage Talk

“Outlier is raw, tender and funny but perhaps most of all: timely”
Wheelie Stagey

 “A poetic gem perfect to use as stimulus for those aged 16 and above”
Drama & Theatre

CAST: 6 (3 female, 3 male) plus chorus

CHARACTERS: 

• Mal
• Ama
• Oscar
• Lewis
• Holly
• Party goers
• Ama’s Dad

Originally performed with one actor playing Mal and accompanying live band, voicing the rest of the characters.

TRIGGER WARNINGS:

Mention of substance abuse, alcohol use and overdose.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

• Trailer for the play: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Iz2qwLBDIM&t=7s
• What Do Audiences Think of Outlier: https://bristololdvic.org.uk/blog/what-do-audiences-think-of-outlier