The director of Noughts & Crosses said the story felt more relevant than ever as the production arrived in Sheffield this week.
Adapted in 2019 by Sabrina Mahfouz, and directed by Esther Richardson by Pilot Theatre, the stage production reimagines Malorie Blackman’s acclaimed novel, first published 25 years ago.
Mrs Richardson said: “The production has only become more and more relevant because of some of the political backdrop that we’re all living through at the moment.
“What’s really compelling is how it gets you thinking about racism, prejudice, and about biases and how power works in our society now.
“It’s almost like the story is almost like a warning.”
Set in a deeply divided society, the play follows Sephy, a privileged, dark-skinned ‘Cross,’ and Callum, a marginalised, white ‘Nought’, whose forbidden romance challenges the systemic racism within their segregated society.
The cast of the touring production, which has travelled all over the UK since February, is led by Brianna Douglas and Lewis Tidy, alongside eight other cast members.
Reflecting on the cast in rehearsals, Esther Richardson said: “It attracts a team of people who are always curious about that and want the world to be a better place, and want to be able to have these conversations.”
Mrs Richardson said the content sat deeply with the team, due to the play’s emotional and political themes.
She elaborated and said: “For certain types of actors, they love doing this kind of stuff, and they want their work to be about plays that mean something, and that are trying to make a change in the world.”
Due to the demanding nature of the production, Mrs Richardson said the company checks in with one another daily.
She said: “I think I’d be right in saying that for some of the company who have experienced racism, it’s really important that it is discussed, unpacked, and that difficult things get to be said as well.”
As the production arrives at the Lyceum from 19-23 of May, Mrs Richardson hopes audiences will leave with plenty to reflect on.
“It’s a great piece to come and see that will leave you with lots to talk about when you go and see the show,” she said.