A man of colour stands accused of a crime he did not commit, and yet he is judged more for the colour of his skin than his words of defence. His white lawyer is judged for representing him. His town is divided along racial lines, and between those who seek progress and those who want to preserve the old way of life.
An all-too-common description of events we see in the news in 2026, yes. But also the plot of Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird, set in 1930s Alabama. An era defined by the struggle for progress, equality and freedom.
A story that remains chillingly relevant today.
This production of To Kill a Mockingbird, adapted by Aaron Sorkin and directed by Bartlett Sher, uses Sorkin’s extensive screenwriting experience from shows such as The West Wing and The Newsroom alongside Sher’s vast theatre knowledge to adapt Lee’s complex story for the stage. The clever use of narration between and during scenes weaves the story around and through intricate sets (Miriam Buether) that move in and out repeatedly and benefits from evocative lighting (Jennifer Tipton). Every aspect of this production combines to bring the story to life in a way that feels somehow more intelligent and more accessible, and brand new.
The performances given in this production are nothing short of excellent, and it is genuinely difficult to single out any one actor above the others. That said, I was moved by the quiet dignity of Aaron Shosanya as Tom Robinson and Andrea Davy as Calpurnia in the face of such violent language and behaviour from the more racist characters in the play. Richard Coyle perfectly explored the balance of Atticus Finch’s desire to respect all, while also protect those he loves most; and the three actors playing the children – Anna Munden (Scout), Gabriel Scott (Jem) and Dylan Malyn (Dill) navigated the ever-evolving emotion of the play seamlessly.
There are several things that could feel frustrating about this play: the incessant moving of set, the sometimes-difficult viewing angles in the courtroom scenes that stretch the stage to its limits, the fact that children are played by adults… but ultimately, none of it matters.
I have rarely seen such a compelling piece of theatre. I was shocked by the culture portrayed on stage. I was struck by the parallels with our modern society. I was moved by the performances. I was engaged in the struggle for justice. I was transformed by the experience. And as soon as the play finished, I found myself wishing I could see it again.
To Kill a Mockingbird continues at the Lyceum Theatre in Sheffield until Saturday 7th February. More details and ticket information can be found on the website: https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/. The tour then continues around the country until May 2026. Tour dates in other cities can be found here: https://www.mockingbirdplay.com/tour.
Reviewer: Jo Tillotson
Reviewed: 27th January 2026
North West End UK Rating: