A Raisin in the Sun Featuring Leeds Playhouse Youth Theatre Members

Three talented Leeds students have been cast in a fresh new staging of A Raisin in the Sun by acclaimed director Tinuke Craig (Trouble in Butetown, Jitney, Crave, The Color Purple). This exciting production premieres at Leeds Playhouse before embarking on a national tour.

Meet the Cast of A Raisin in the Sun

• Jayden Dias, Josh Ndlovu, and Adiel Magaji—all members of the Youth Theatre at Leeds Playhouse—will share the role of Travis in both Leeds and Oxford Playhouse performances.

Director’s Insights

Eleanor Manners, Youth Theatre Director at Leeds Playhouse, expressed her excitement for the young actors:

“I’m so excited for these three young actors – they are all super performers! Working with director Tinuke Craig and this wonderful creative team will be really special for them. It’s rare that young people get the opportunity to work on their skills in such a concentrated way.”

Jayden, Josh, and Adiel Reflect on Their Roles

• Jayden Dias, 14, student at Cockburn School: “I am grateful for this role and feel like it will be another big challenge, opportunity, and responsibility. Macbeth was an unforgettable experience.”
• Josh Ndlovu, 14, student at Trinity Academy: “I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to play back-to-back roles at the Playhouse. The Playhouse is a real wonder!”
• Adiel Magaji, 13, student at Allerton High School: “A Raisin in the Sun is a mighty symbol of perseverance and courage. I am ecstatic to be part of a play with this much meaning.”

About the Play

A Raisin in the Sun is a co-production between Headlong, Leeds Playhouse, Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, and Nottingham Playhouse. This classic family drama explores themes of hope, dreams, and inequality that remain powerful today.

The play focuses on the Younger family, living in a rented apartment on Chicago’s South Side. After their father’s death, they must decide how to use the money from his life insurance policy—each member facing personal challenges that reflect their dreams and the harsh reality of a segregated society.

Leeds Playhouse Youth Theatre Opportunities

Leeds Playhouse offers a range of opportunities for young people, including:

• Youth Theatre at the Playhouse
• Satellite centres at RJC in Chapeltown and DAZL in Middleton
• Holiday courses and drop-in sessions for young refugees and asylum seekers

A Raisin in the Sun runs at the Courtyard Theatre, Leeds Playhouse between 13th and 28th September. Age 14+
Tickets here