The British High Commission in Jamaica hosted an exclusive screening of the UK National Theatre’s acclaimed stage adaptation of Andrea Levy’s novel Small Island on Thursday evening (March 20) at the High Commissioner’s Residence in Kingston.

The event brought together guests from various sectors including the diplomatic corps, creative community, and the media. It served as a celebration of the deep and enduring cultural and historical ties between Jamaica and the United Kingdom while honouring the legacy and experiences of the Windrush generation.

Small Island, which premiered at the National Theatre in London in 2019 and was revived in 2022 due to popular demand, tells the interwoven stories of Jamaicans and Britons during and after World War II. Adapted from Andrea Levy’s award-winning novel, the play explores powerful themes of migration, identity, belonging, and the complexities of post-war colonial relations.

In her opening remarks, British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Judith Slater, shared her personal connection to the production, having seen it live in the West End in 2019. She noted the deep cultural resonance of the story, rooted in Levy’s own family history—her parents having migrated from Jamaica to the UK on the HMT Empire Windrush in 1948.

“This evening is more than just a film screening; it is a celebration of the Windrush generation’s resilience, achievements, and their lasting contributions to both our nations. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the challenges they faced, including the injustices of the Windrush scandal. The UK government remains committed to righting those wrongs and strengthening its engagement with those affected.”

She also noted that the UK government is expected to appoint a new Windrush Commissioner by the summer.

The evening also highlighted the High Commission’s broader efforts to support cultural initiatives that honour the shared history of Jamaica and the UK. This includes projects such as the ‘A Tale of Two Cities’ mural by artist Michael Elliott in downtown Kingston, developed in partnership with Kingston Creative, which stands as a tribute to the Windrush generation and the long-standing connections between the two nations.

The event was part of the High Commission’s ongoing thrust to foster dialogue around identity, migration, and cultural legacy – ensuring the stories of the past continue to resonate and inspire future generations.