Cast and creative team revealed for Rep’s adaptation of Small Island

Birmingham Rep has announced the cast and creative team for Small Island, a new stage adaptation of Andrea Levy’s multi award-winning novel.

The production traces an unforgettable journey from the sun-drenched shores of Jamaica to the cold, grey streets of 1940s London.

The new-co production is between the Rep, Leeds Playhouse and Nottingham Playhouse, in association with actors touring company and is the first to bring the story to audiences outside London.

The production will premiere in the quarry theatre at Leeds playhouse from Wednesday 1 to Saturday 18 April, and Nottingham Playhouse on Wednesday 28 April to Saturday 16 May.

Director Matthew Xia said: “I can’t wait to get in the rehearsal room with this incredible group of artists to reimagine Small Island together.

“Working with such a talented, courageous and empathetic cast and creative team empowers us to delve deep – beyond nostalgia and heritage – to create a rich immersive world through which we can confront our shared history.

 “I want audiences to feel the elemental force of this story: the power of a Caribbean hurricane set against the post-war austerity of a Britain clinging to empire. But I also want them to feel the hope that propels people across oceans in search of prosperity, opportunity and belonging.”

The adaptation stars Hortense and Gilbert who are determined Jamaican migrants in search of belonging and respect, Queenie, an Englishwoman who defies convention, and Bernard, her husband, struggling with change will all bring the story to life.

Together, they discover love across culture, colour and class – and the fragile hope of a shared future.

Visit Birmingham Rep’s website to book or call the Box Office on 0121 236 4455 (Monday to Friday from 12pm to 6pm, Saturdays 12pm to 6pm, or 4pm if there is no evening performance scheduled).