National Theatre Connections - ACT Youth Theatre in SYCAMORE GAP by Al Smith

The National Theatre Connections festival is returning to Brighton this spring, bringing a series of performances to the city. Among the productions scheduled is a staging of Sycamore Gap, written by the playwright Al Smith and performed by the ACT Youth Theatre. The play is a whodunnit that focuses on the aftermath of the felling of the famous tree at Sycamore Gap. The narrative unfolds in a classroom, where twelve students from a school eco-club are being interrogated by the police. As the questioning progresses, the play explores the motivations behind the act and the various perspectives of the students involved, touching on themes of truth, justice, masks, and the broader concepts of responsibility and loss.

Al Smith is a well-known figure in contemporary theatre, having had his work staged at the Royal Court Theatre, alongside his experience writing for television series such as EastEnders and Casualty. His script for Sycamore Gap provides a framework for the youth actors to navigate the complexities of the situation, moving beyond a simple mystery to examine how individuals react when faced with a scandal. The production is part of a larger national initiative that highlights youth theatre across the UK and Ireland, providing a platform for young performers to engage with new, challenging material.

For those planning to attend, the performances will be held at The Lantern Theatre, situated at 77 St James's Street. The theatre serves as the home for the ACT Brighton drama school and offers a space for these types of community-focused productions. There are two opportunities to see the play: Friday, 10 April 2026, and Saturday, 11 April 2026. Both shows are set to begin at 20:00. Tickets for the event are priced at £5.00. It is a straightforward way to support local youth talent and see a piece of contemporary writing in an intimate setting. The production offers a look at how young actors interpret Smith’s work, making it a relevant addition to the local cultural calendar for those interested in the current state of youth theatre.