Derek Ezenagu opens in ‘Two Trains Running’ to top reviews.

‘Two Trains Running’ opened on Wednesday night at the Royal & Derngate. Derek Ezenagu plays Hambone in this rich, character-driven performance set in 1960’s Memphis.

The show is a joint venture with the English Touring Theatre, and will run at the Royal & Derngate until 14th September, followed by a tour until 26th October. First reviews have been glowing, so be sure to read what’s being said below.

★★★★ ‘The most memorable is Hambone [Derek Ezenagu], who might have stepped out of a Ben Jonson play and who for nearly a decade has been seeking reparation for work done for a white butcher.’- Michael Billington for The Guardian- Full Review

★★★ ‘Then there’s poignant, damaged Hambone (Derek Ezenagu), promised a ham in return for painting a fence for a white butcher more than nine years previously and never paid his due. His plaintive, furious, obsessive cry — “He gonna give me my ham!” — is an agonising indictment of injustice.’-Sam Marlowe for The Times- Full Review

‘Derek Ezenagu is most affecting of all as the learning-disabled Hambone, tears in his eyes as he discovers new ways to articulate his own particular frustrations.’- Michael Davies for Whats on Stage– Full Review

★★★★ ‘the excellent ensemble deliver Wilson’s characters with respect and dignity.’-JN Benjamin for The Stage- Full Review

It’s impossible not to be moved by the mentally impaired Hambone (beautifully portrayed by actor Derek Ezenagu).– Anne Cox for Stage Review- Full Review