What happens when a white activist deeply committed to the Black Lives Matter movement falls for a politically disengaged Black playwright at a time of rising racial tension in America? It sounds like the setup for a classic opposites attract romance but This Bitter Earth, now playing at London’s Soho Theatre, offers something far more layered. Written by Harrison David Rivers and directed by Billy Porter, making his London directorial debut, this tender and timely two-hander is not just a love story, it’s a gripping and insightful exploration of race, identity and the complexities of political engagement.
This Bitter Earth, centres on Jesse (Omari Douglas), an introspective Black playwright, and Neil (Alexander Lincoln), his white activist boyfriend, as their relationship is tested by both external pressures and internal conflict. They endure everything from the subtle racism of strangers, like uncomfortable stares when they kiss on a train, to Jesse’s conservative Southern Baptist parents, who still struggle to accept his sexuality. Yet it’s the tension between them, rooted in their ideological differences, that proves most difficult to navigate.
The play unfolds in a non-linear structure, jumping back and forth between different points in their relationship, from early romantic moments to heated arguments later on. Their relationship begins in 2012, with their first meeting at a Black Lives Matter rally, an event Jesse reluctantly attends and where Neil unexpectedly finds himself at the centre of the protest. As their romance develops, a central strain emerges from their differing approaches to political engagement. Neil becomes increasingly immersed in activism, attending protests and speaking out against injustice, while Jesse retreats inward, choosing instead to focus on his writing. This ideological divide forces them into difficult conversations about race, privilege, and responsibility, gradually revealing the fault lines in their bond.
At the heart of This Bitter Earth is the electric chemistry and nuanced performances of its two leads. Omari Douglas delivers a layered and compelling portrayal of Jesse, capturing both his quiet introspection and his reluctance to engage outwardly with politics. Alexander Lincoln is equally convincing as Neil, portraying him with sincerity while subtly exposing the privilege that complicates his activism. Together, their dynamic is emotionally charged and totally believable. Tender moments between them feel natural and intimate, while their confrontations, including a physical altercation, are raw and unsettling in their realism, making their relationship feel authentic and very human.
Harrison David Rivers’ script is intelligent and unafraid to confront difficult themes. Its non-linear structure, constantly shifting between different stages of Jesse and Neil’s relationship, can at times be a little disorienting and I occasionally found myself unsure whether we were in the past or present. Still, this is a minor quibble in an otherwise compelling piece of writing. The dialogue is sharp, often laced with wit and gives the audience access to the characters’ inner thoughts, making their joys and conflicts feel very real.
Billy Porter’s directs with a theatrical flair that you might expect from him. There’s a scene in which the characters interact with the audience which I’m not sure entirely fit in with the flow of the play but it was a lot of fun. Overall, Porter demonstrates a clear understanding of the play’s emotional core, creating a strong and sustained connection between the actors and the audience.
This Bitter Earth is a poignant and absorbing piece of theatre and a raw, honest portrait of a relationship tested by societal expectations and internal divides. Brought vividly to life by two exceptional performances and guided by Billy Porter’s sensitive direction, the play offers an emotionally rich and thought-provoking experience. It left me reflecting on my own place in a world that may at times be seem bitter but also has a large capacity for love, empathy and connection.
Need to Know: This Bitter Earth is playing at Soho Theatre until Sat 26 Jul 2025
