Andrea Levy’s Small Island at Leeds Playhouse serves both as a compelling drama and an education presenting perspectives that are often absent from narratives.
Set in the 1940s (but could just as easily been set today), it follows the story of Hortense and Gilbert who relocate from Jamaica to Britain carrying great expectations of the ‘mother country’. What they actually encounter instead contrasts greatly, highlighting the harsh realities faced by those seeking both escape and opportunity.
The performances are strong across the cast. Gilbert (Daniel Ward) stands out in particular; his good nature and humour bring warmth to the production and provide moments of relief amid the hostility and hardship portrayed on stage. In contrast, the other main characters are not especially likeable, yet they are very recognisable. A parallel can be drawn between Hortense (Anna Crichlow) and Queenie (Bronté Barbé), the British protagonist, both motivated to marry because it is seemingly the only recourse to affect change in their lives.
The script does not sugar‑coat the hostilities faced by the characters. Racism, resentment and disillusionment are presented plainly, reflecting realities both historically and in the present day. Despite the discomfort this creates, the play contains genuine laugh‑out‑loud moments, driven by sharp dialogue and well directed delivery.
Visually, the production steps up significantly in the second act. While the first act relies on projected backdrops to convey weather and props lowered from above, the shift towards more traditional ‘box‑set’ staging takes the audience into the living spaces of the main characters and almost allows us to experience the scenes first hand.
The audience on the night was diverse, responsive and clearly engaged throughout the running time of over three hours and twenty‑five minutes, including the interval. Although long, Small Island is a history lesson that should be taught to all.
Small Island is at Leeds Playhouse until Saturday 28 March 2026. Full details and tickets here.
This post was written by reader Christine Brathwaite in return for two free tickets, as part of South Leeds Goes To The Playhouse.
Top Photo: Mark Arends (Bernard), Daniel Ward (Gilbert) and Anna Crichlow (Hortense) in Small Island. Credit: Pamela Raith Photography
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