Picture the scene. You are a child settling down to watch your favourite show. An earnest young woman springs onto the screen and welcomes you into a world of diversity, colour, and magic. That show is Play Away, and that young woman is Floella Benjamin. Now imagine you are sat in the theatre, a TV screen bigger than you could have ever imagined is in front of you, and that very same young, animated woman has come to life on stage. The giddiness overcomes you and you feel transported to childhood. 

Floella Benjamin's award winning book of her move from Trinidad to England has now been created into a masterpiece of a play that is set to take the UK by storm. Coming to England has been adapted by David Wood and directed by Denzel Westley Sanderson for the stage and wowed audiences in the town where Floella took her first steps on British soil. 

The show follows the journey of a young Floella. Through her time in Trinidad with her 5 siblings and parents, to the family separation as they disperse across Trinidad and England, before Floella and 3 of her siblings join the rest of the family on British soil searching for the promise of a happier life in England. 

Throughout the story you are shown the abuse and torment that black families were put through upon moving to England, and how Floella (with the guidance of her fantastic Marmie) rises above it to prove her worth and show society that the colour of her skin is not her problem, it's theirs; and in return, she is able to achieve anything that she dreams of. 

The story is woven with rich costumes, staging, and songs that fill your heart with joy and bring a smile to your face, whilst still telling an important story about Floella and her journey to happiness in a country that didn't want to initially accept her. I loved the hand painted staging, the bright carnival scenes, and the juxtaposing costumes of the Benjamin's vibrant colours against the drab and dullness of London. 

Exposing the heartache and abuse that the Windrush generation have been victims to isn't an easy feat. And for a show that is family friendly and whole heartedly welcome for younger audiences, it's visibly uncomfortable at times when you see the words thrown at Floella. However not exposing this language and abuse in the show would be a disservice to those that experienced it. The sense of uncomfort from audience members is a welcome reminder that diversity and inclusivity is still something to strive towards. 

Floella was played by the enigmatic Julene Robson, who couldn't have been any more like the real life Floella if she tried. Her personality shone through and she won over the hearts of everyone. How she had the stamina to stay on stage almost for the whole show is something to be marvelled at, and her moment of singing Smile left me with a tear in my eye. I also adored the powerful and inspirational Marmie played by Maryla Abraham. The warmth that radiated from the stage left everyone wishing they could have their own Marmie in their lives to inspire and push them to achieve their best. The cast of siblings were fantastic at matching Floella's energy, and the cast truly inspired everyone. 

The show embodies the spirit of Floella, with an "I can achieve anything" outlook, pushing the negativity away and embracing the joy and celebration of life. It leaves the audience feeling overwhelmed with emotions, from discomfort at discrimination, to joy at just how magical this show is. Floella inspired a generation of Play Away children to go forth and achieve their dreams, she inspired a generation of readers to understand the experiences of others, and she inspired a generation of theatre goers to want this show seen by anyone and everyone. 

Coming to England is a vibrant look at Floella's story and bursting with colour and life to bring joy to audience members young and not as young. 

On at the MAST Mayflower Studios until 26/10/24, before continuing on a UK tour, this is one show not to miss.