A play about the ethics of international development in the global south, "A Fine Idea" is a thought-provoking piece that takes on the weighty topic of global poverty and the role of development agencies. The play, inspired by Jason Hickel's book "The Divide", is a powerful commentary on the unintended consequences of well-intentioned efforts. However, it falls short of its potential due to an overreliance on statistics and a lack of focus on character development.
The story begins with Ben Hardy (Kevin Trainor), the writer of President Harry Truman's postwar speech on ending world poverty. We are then transported to modern-day Kenya, where Hardy's granddaughter, Jo (Ella Bryant), encounters activist Kala (Grace Saif). Through their interactions, we witness the complexities and challenges of international development. The play highlights the underlying colonialist principles that often shape these efforts and the political neutrality that can hinder progress.
One of the strengths of "A Fine Idea" is its use of satire. The charity concert in postwar America, for instance, serves as a clever critique of celebrity-led campaigns like Band Aid. Similarly, the fundraising event in Nairobi is a biting commentary on the guilt-tripping tactics used to extract donations from the wealthy. These moments offer a refreshing break from the heavy-handed statistics and polemics.
However, the play's focus on number-crunching and polemics can be overwhelming. The constant barrage of statistics, such as hospital disease and death rates, per thousand, becomes a distraction from the human drama. The IMF, personified as a surgeon, adds a layer of symbolism but also risks becoming a mere prop in a sea of facts and figures. This approach leeches the potential power of the drama, leaving the audience feeling overwhelmed rather than engaged.
In my opinion, the play's biggest weakness lies in its lack of focus on character development. While the performances are impassioned, the characters often feel like mere vehicles for the play's message. The crisis of conscience experienced by Jo and the abduction of Kala by the authorities could have been more compelling if they had been given more depth and nuance. The play's secondary plotting around these events feels like an afterthought, lacking the emotional impact that could have made the story truly memorable.
Despite these shortcomings, "A Fine Idea" is a thought-provoking piece that raises important questions about the ethics of international development. It is a call to action, urging us to consider the unintended consequences of our efforts and to strive for a more equitable and just approach. The play's use of satire and its exploration of the complexities of global poverty make it a compelling watch, even if it falls short of its potential.
In my view, the play's strength lies in its ability to spark conversation and critical thinking. It is a reminder that behind every statistic, there is a human story, and that our efforts to address global poverty must be guided by empathy and understanding. "A Fine Idea" is a powerful commentary on the unintended consequences of well-intentioned efforts, and it is a call to action for all of us to reflect on our role in the global fight against poverty.
