Identity Crisis

Written and Performed by Phina Oruche

This comic tale examines Phina's own observations on what others have made of her black identity as she worked her way through being fashion model, actress, radio presenter and writer in a world of fickle media.

Dramaturgy and Direction Bill Hopkinson

Projections By Helen Newall

“Identity Crisis was created when my life stopped when tragedy struck. I plunged into a deep, dark, interminable grief. The range of emotions I felt and the questions I posed about life and what my value was, made me feel at times like I was in crisis.”

Beginning with the real life story of the sudden death of Phina's 19-year-old niece in her house in 2011 and the ensuing press intrusion, this show presents us with 60 images of Phina in fashion and provides an illuminating, humorous and candid exposition of life under the glare of the media spotlight. 

Phina portrays nine characters: Black, White, Old, Young, Male and Female, each having an Identity Crisis and explores identity struggles that are common to all of us. Through its simple key staging, the show provides a perfect vehicle for Phina's larger than life characterisations