'The Legends of Them' review — Sutara Gayle's bold and heartfelt show takes us on a journey through her extraordinary life

Read our review of The Legends of Them, which combines music, humour and vivid storytelling, now in performances at the Royal Court to 21 December.

Reggae pioneer Sutara Gayle AKA Lorna Gee takes us on a vivid odyssey through her extraordinary life in her captivating production The Legends of Them. Following a sold-out debut at Brixton House last year, Legends is now playing at the Royal Court.

Written and performed by Gayle, this one-woman show takes place against the backdrop of a spiritual retreat, where Gayle is guided by her brother Mooji to confront her past. This powerful work blends deeply personal and cultural history, allowing audiences to experience the full scope of her journey. The tale unpacks every chapter of her life, from her trailblazing role in the male-dominated sound systems of the 1980s to her time spent in care and prison.

The production dramatises these moments through engaging, and unique, storytelling. You can expect rhythmic and high-energy musical numbers, witty comedy, and remarkable stage presence from Gayle in this 90-minute show. The pulsating beats transport you to the dancehall days of her youth, immersing you in the vibrant culture that shaped her.

Directed by Jo McInnes, the piece follows a non-linear structure of Gayle’s memories. She portrays an array of influential figures (or legends!) including her mother Euphemia, a hardworking seamstress; her ancestor Nanny of the Maroons, a revered leader of formerly enslaved Africans; and her sister Cherry Groce, whose tragic shooting by police in 1985 catalysed the Brixton riots.

Although Gayle’s portrayal of multiple characters can initially be challenging to follow, the creative aspects — such as the atmospheric lighting (by Joshie Harriette) and intense sound design (Elena Peña) — help guide the story along. The use of video projections (designed by Tyler Forward) particularly elevates the story, providing additional context and depth.

While the production may have felt more intimate and immersive in its original Brixton House setting, the Royal Court incarnation still offers an experience that is guaranteed to emotionally engage audiences no matter where they’re seated. Gayle is a fantastic playwright and performer, delivering an authentically charismatic performance that seamlessly blends humour, poignant storytelling, and music.

The towering sound system behind Gayle serves as a symbolic reminder of the power and resilience of her culture – it was truly extraordinary.

This show is bold and heartfelt as it explores themes of identity, heritage and healing. Gayle’s writing is beautifully honest, celebrating her history and the importance of community. This is a thoroughly entertaining and thought-provoking piece of theatre.

The Legends of Them is at the Royal Court to 21 December. Book The Legends of Them tickets on London Theatre.

Photo credit: The Legends of Them (Photos by Harry Elletson)