Pig Heart Boy – Sheffield Theatres Playhouse

This play with a big heart is based on the novel by Malorie Blackman and newly adapted by Winsome Pinnock, Pig Heart Boy is an emotive and thought-provoking stage play. With the just the right amount of suggestion opposed to detail, this educational production aimed at the young adult audience, provides plenty of room for discussion both before and after. As all good theatre in education, we are introduced to the moral dilemma and allowed to consider, ruminate and make up our own minds as to the ethical/moral issue.

Cameron is awaiting a heart transplant after a childhood illness severely weaken his own. With the clock ticking and his life on hold, unable to do the things his friends do and live life to the full, he is offered a pioneering, top secret and some say – unethical option of having a genetically modified Pig’s heart transplant as his only option. The Pig’s name is Trudy and as he meets her, she is comically humanised to heighten the dilemma. Cameron’s story of morality, ethicality and dealing with the opinions of others whilst trying to deal with his own thrust him into the limelight as his story is leaked to the press. Always giving two sides to the story we as observers are left to question what our own decisions and actions would be. The plays jumps time frames and this is mirrored as Cameron makes a documentary film for his unborn sibling (Alex), with the camera his Nan gives him.  

This is an engaging play that is both poignant and aesthetic. The set of TV screens, scaffolding and light tubes, designed by Paul Willis is effective and simulates the beating and blood flow of the Heart, creating a tension immediately. Andrew Exeter’s lighting design adds to the atmospherics and Xana as Sound Designer and composer completes the effectiveness. But it is within the scripting that the imagery is most alluring, Cameron’s initial description of the underwater abyss whilst he is diving in ‘Deep Dive Dare’ – a game he plays with friends as to who can hold their breath underwater longest – this becoming his ‘purpose’. The delivery of the soliloquies are almost Shakespearean in narrative quality and Immanuel Yeboah as Cameron excels at this time. As a constant on stage, during this 90-minute one act play, Yeboah is commanding and detailed in his delivery and wins the audience with ease. Akil Young who multi roles Cameron’s father Mike and school friend Rashid, is another outstanding and multi-talented performer. Young’s performance in both roles have great contrast. Chia Phoenix plays five roles including ‘Trudy’ the Pig but it is her role as Nan that captivates the audience – exceptional. Tre Medley as book loving friend Andrew and Dr Bryce has real impact on stage and is particularly appealing to the teen audience. Christine Ngoyi as best friend Marilyn, amongst other roles gives a confident and soul searching performance. Christine During’s duel role as Mother and school friend completes the cast with Olivia Freeman and Rhys Lanahan as Understudy’s who grace the ensemble.

Pig Heart Boy is at the Sheffield Theatres Playhouse from Thursday 27^th February to Sat 15^th March 2025 and is well worth a visit – I really enjoyed it and was transfixed throughout. It is not only thought provoking and educational but also aesthetically entertaining, this production is suitable for all age group, even though it is aimed at young adults. https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/pig-heart-boy

Are ethics and morals the deciding ‘Heart’ of the matter?

Reviewer: Tracey Bell

Reviewed: 4th March 2025

North West End UK Rating: