‘A nostalgic callback that feels eerily relevant today’
Noughts and Crosses is a story that feel just as important today, if not more, than when the book was published in 2001. Adapted for the stage by Sabrina Mahfouzand directed by Ester Richardson, this production arrives at The Lowry to bring readers back to the world of Sephy and Callum. Urgent, reflective and moving, its transition to the stage reawakens those initial emotions, casting them in a new and powerful light.
Set in a world divided by race and privilege, the story follows Sephy (Brianna Douglas) and Callum (Lewis Tidy), whose relationship unfolds against a backdrop of systemic oppression and deep-rooted division. With Sephy part of a politically influential family as a Nought, her friendship with Callum as a Cross presents a whole host of challenges. The story explores the innocence of children and how there is a conscious shift in recognising difference as they age. Around them, a strong cast – including Melody Adeniran, Daniel Copeland, Chris Jack, Emma Keel and Elexie Walker – work together to bring this fractured society to life.
Brianna Douglas brings a warmth to Sephy that makes her internal conflict feel honest and genuine, while Lewis Tidy grounds Callum with a volatile calm that draws the audience in. Together, they create a connection that is easy to captured by. Across the ensemble, the actors stepped into multiple roles and delivered them with ease. Tom Coleman brilliantly stepped into the role Jude, allowing the performance to continue.
At times, the pacing can feel uneven, with some scenes being slightly drawn out and others not allowing the weight of what is unfolding to be reflected upon. This occasionally disrupts the flow of the production, making it harder to remain fully immersed in the world being built. The simplicity of the set allows the story to remain front and centre, while the lighting design does much of the work in shaping atmosphere and tone.
Ultimately, this is a production carried by the enduring relevance of its story. While elements of the staging and delivery feel less assured, the heart of Noughts & Crosses and the commitment of its performers comes through – asking important questions and is a story that doesn’t quite let you go once you have left the theatre.
Noughts and Crosses plays at The Lowry until 25th April. Tickets are available here.