Windrush by Song returns to Leeds Playhouse in powerful reimagined production.
Windrush by Song returns to Leeds Playhouse in a newly reimagined production that deepens its emotional impact, expands its storytelling and brings fresh creative energy to the stage – including a performance on 22 June, Windrush Day, marking a nationally significant moment of reflection and celebration. The production plays in the Courtyard Theatre at Leeds Playhouse on 22 & 23 June.
A vibrant fusion of dance, music and theatre, the production celebrates togetherness and community: two hearts that mix up an’ mek someting sweet. Telling a story of prejudice and protest, love and hope, Windrush by Song is a moving tribute to Caribbean heritage and the Windrush generation.
Written and directed by Omari Swanston Jeffers, the production brings together an acclaimed creative team of British-Caribbean artists working across movement, music and storytelling. He is joined in the cast by performer , who specialises in Hip-Hop, Contemporary and African-Caribbean dance.
Omari Swanston Jeffers: “We’re back! This time ‘badder than eva’ with new songs, an extended script and fresh choreography. Since its premiere at Northern School of Contemporary Dance in 2024, I’ve undertaken a journey in my artistic development across acting, music and writing and have just come back from three months of dance training in Colombia with a company called Sankofa DanzAfro. I feel there is an evolution in my practice, and all this flows into this version of Windrush by Song. This is a show I’m really proud of and extremely honoured to share.”
Be transported back to the 1940s to meet Sorel and Ginger. Through a Caribbean lens and dynamic British Afro-Contemporary dance, follow their lives from leaving home, arriving on cold shores, to finding each other in love and forming a family.
The creative team includes Christella Litras (Musical Director); De-napoli Clarke-Napps (Dramaturg and Director) and a band including Alex Robinson (Bassist); Azizi Cole (Percussionist); Chris Campbell (Lead Guitar); Jocelyn Searles (Vocalist); Phyn Williams (Guitar & Vocals); Paulette Morris (Vocalist) and Carl Robinson (Vocals & percussion).
Produced by Ol’ Man Swanny in partnership with Renaissance One, and supported by Arts Council England, Windrush by Song is both a celebration and reflection – honouring the legacy, humour, struggle and enduring spirit of Caribbean communities in Britain.
Windrush by Song
Written and directed by Omari Swanston Jeffers
Leeds Playhouse’s Courtyard Theatre
Age guide 7+
22 & 23 June
Call Box Office on 0113 213 7700
Book online at leedsplayhouse.org.uk
