Review - Skylight - Little Theatre

Skylight 

Little Theatre

10th November, 2025

Written by David Hare

Directed by Tim Clark

Cast: 

Tom Sergeant - Mark Buckley

Kyra Hollis - Suzanne Jennings

Edward Sergeant - Lewis Connor Ryan

This week I have been back to The Little Theatre in Gateshead, home to the Progressive Players. I've not been to this lovely theatre for a while and David Hare's Skylight was a worthy play to temp me back. 

The play takes place in the run-down flat of teacher Kyra Hollis. It's cold and damp and is not in the best area. Into this flat come two unexpected visitors; first Edward Sergeant, and then his father, Tom. We learn from Edward that Kyra was once an important part of their family, that his mother has died, and that his father Tom is not coping. Edward and Tom have argued and eighteen year old Edward has left home. He comes to Kyra hoping that she might help.  Later that evening Tom arrives. We learn that he and Kyra had been having an affair, and Alice, Tom's wife and Kyra's friend discovered this, forcing Kyra's departure from their lives. The play is an exploration of their relationship as they rediscover themselves and find that, though they still love each other, they want different things from life. 

This production by the Progressive Players is superb, from the authenticity of set, to the performances of the three actors. Three strong performances from the cast keep the audience engaged throughout. Under the careful direction of Tim Clarke the tension rises and falls, as the characters overcome their initial awkwardness and wariness, reliving memories - of good times and bad - slowly unfolding their history to the audience. It is emotional - anger, frustration, joy and relief, punctuated with moments of humour. 

The play explores themes of love, loyalty, betrayal and trust, questioning the norms of family life, but also of society, where the rich and influential can be completely cut off from the reality of life for those less fortunate. Although it was written in 1995 the themes resonate today. 

It runs until Saturday 15th November. Tickets are available online, or from the box office on the night. I recommend buying in advance to avoid disappointment! 

Denise Sparrowhawk