Noughts and Crosses

The opening scene, though brief, is incredibly powerful and sets the tone the moment you walk in. The actors were perfectly cast, each one reflecting their book counterparts with striking accuracy. Their performances were exceptional; they channelled the characters’ emotions, conflicts, and relationships with such conviction that the story felt alive onstage.

The set design was fantastic, and the sound effects added real depth by conveying the characters’ inner thoughts and feelings. I especially loved the clever use of chairs as props; they were transformed seamlessly into different pieces of scenery, showing just how creative and thoughtful the staging was.

One of the most impressive elements was the screen at the back of the stage. It elevated the entire production, using moving visuals and effects to shift between settings and make everything feel even more real for the audience. It even broadcasted a ‘news channel,’ which highlighted the political tension and challenges faced by the characters at key moments in the play.

The actors were absolutely incredible, bringing Malorie Blackman’s important story to life with powerful storytelling and skill. The themes of the book – prejudice, inequality, and forbidden love – remain deeply relevant in the world we live in today, and the cast honoured that significance beautifully.

My favourite aspect of the production was how faithfully it stayed true to the original novel. Malorie Blackman’s story of Sephy and Callum, a Cross and a Nought whose love is forbidden, was presented with such care and accuracy that it felt like the book had stepped straight onto the stage.

Noughts and Crosses is at Hackney Empire until Thursday 14 May.