The past both informs and threatens to upend the present in “My Father’s Fable,” a play from Olivier-nominated performer Faith Omole (“Standing at the Sky’s Edge”). This production premieres at west London’s Bush Theatre, which last year hosted “Elephant” by fellow Olivier nominee Anoushka Lucas.

The Bush Theatre is renowned for nurturing young talent and engaging audiences. Time and again, this venue attracts a notably diverse audience that enhances the performance with their energy. “My Father’s Fable” is no exception, adding another triumph to the theatre’s repertoire.

While it may not be as polished as “Elephant,” being somewhat looser and more awkwardly staged, and with an uneven cast, Omole tackles a compelling theme: how figures from our past can disrupt the present. She structures the play like a thriller, full of narrative twists leading to a subtle, haunting conclusion reminiscent of August Wilson’s gothic tales.

The story centers on Peace (Tiwa Lade), a history teacher in a seemingly loving relationship with her boyfriend, Roy (Gabriel Akuwudike). Their peace is shattered by the unexpected arrival of Peace’s half-brother, Bolu (Theo Ogundipe), from Nigeria. Bolu’s presence unsettles Peace’s excitable mother, Favour (Rakie Ayola), who questions his motives and resents sharing the home.

The tension among this quartet reveals conflicting perspectives and buried secrets, disrupting their lives with growing resentment and hostility.

Rebekah Murrell’s direction could be more dynamic, as some early scenes drag, and Ayola’s lines are sometimes lost when her back is turned to parts of the audience (seated on three sides).

Omole’s script occasionally shifts tone awkwardly, with some melodramatic elements and a comedic misunderstanding (“prostate/prostrate”) that falls flat. Additionally, a subplot involving Peace’s troubled student seems extraneous to the main themes.

The play shines with its male leads. Akuwudike is immediately endearing as a film-loving techie juggling career aspirations and a shaky relationship. Ogundipe is outstanding as the character who acts as a catalyst for the unfolding drama, keeping the audience on edge until the play’s chilling finale.

“My Father’s Fable” is at the Bush Theatre through 27 July. Book tickets on London Theatre.