To Kill a Mockingbird at the Liverpool Empire is a powerful and emotionally charged production that proves Harper Lee’s story still has enormous relevance today. Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation brings a sharper, more contemporary edge to the novel, while Bartlett Sher’s direction balances moments of humour and warmth with the darker realities of racism, injustice and prejudice. The result is gripping theatre that feels both timeless and uncomfortably current.
Set in 1930s Alabama, the story follows lawyer Atticus Finch as he defends Tom Robinson, a Black man falsely accused of assaulting a white woman. Told through the eyes of Scout, Jem and Dill, the production cleverly contrasts the innocence of childhood with the ugliness of the adult world around them. This adaptation also digs deeper into the flaws and complexities of its characters, particularly Atticus himself, making the story feel richer and more layered than many previous versions.
Patrick O’Kane is outstanding as Atticus Finch, delivering a performance filled with quiet authority and compassion. Rather than presenting him as an untouchable moral hero, O’Kane allows the audience to see the doubts, frustrations and limitations beneath the calm exterior. It is a deeply human portrayal that anchors the production.
Anna Munden shines as Scout, bringing energy, humour and vulnerability to the role without ever making the character feel overly theatrical. Gabriel Scott’s Jem perfectly captures the painful transition from childhood innocence to a harsher understanding of the world, while Dylan Malyn gives Dill a warmth and sensitivity that makes him instantly likeable.
Andrea Davy is exceptional as Calpurnia, whose expanded role in this adaptation gives the production some of its most important and thought-provoking moments. Her scenes with Atticus challenge both his perspective and the audience’s, adding another dimension to the story’s exploration of race and justice. Aaron Shosanya also delivers a moving performance as Tom Robinson, conveying dignity and humanity even as the odds close in around him.
The production itself is visually impressive without becoming distracting. Miriam Buether’s set design moves seamlessly between locations, from the Finch household to the courtroom, helping maintain the pace and tension throughout. The courtroom scenes in particular are absorbing, filled with a sense of dread that steadily builds as the outcome becomes increasingly inevitable.
What makes this production so effective is its refusal to soften the story’s message. Themes of prejudice, mob mentality and systemic injustice feel painfully relevant, and the play forces the audience to confront uncomfortable truths while still finding moments of hope and compassion through its younger characters.
Thought-provoking, beautifully acted and emotionally resonant, To Kill a Mockingbird at the Liverpool Empire is a compelling revival of a classic story. It may not be easy viewing, but it is important, engaging theatre that leaves a lasting impact.
Reviewer: Brian Madden
Reviewed: 12th May 2026
North West End UK Rating: