Family Tree – Everyman Theatre, Liverpool

Matthew Xia has produced an outstanding serving of unremembered history. A fascinating celebration of black life, past and present, and the importance of what connects us all in the human condition.

Mojisola Adebayo’ s powerful words were tackled by the cast with sensitivity and flare, and a quick mention to Aminita Francis for handling the difficult poetic language of Henrietta Lacks with nuance and verve.

This is a story that spans ninety minutes but captures centuries. A performance that does not shy from cultural celebration but shares the infectious energy of Diane Alison-Mitchell’s traditional dance and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers cultural song. It will definitely make you smile.

It was evident that a lot of research has been put into this production. It is a searing lesson of prejudice in past and present times and one that should be heard by all.

At times the pace of dialogue affected diction and some words were lost but that did not affect the overall message. It is a long performance and could definitely benefit from having an interval, so the audience’s focus is kept and the conversation between them can be started about the subjects they have seen.

That said, it was a brilliantly important piece of theatre.

Touring further afield until Mid-June. Dates and venues can be found here:

Reviewer: Hannah Esnouf

Reviewed: 4^th May 2023

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★