Sheffield Lyceum – until Saturday 14th February 2026
Reviewed by Claire Moore
4****
My Brother’s a Genius follows twins Daisy and Luke growing up on a high-rise estate, as they work their way through life amid a jumble of ambition, expectation and self-doubt. Both are labelled from an early age — Daisy as the “idiot” and Luke as the “genius” — and those words begin to shape not just how the world sees them, but how they see themselves. Bound by a close relationship and a shared dream of flying, the question is whether that bond will lift them both up, or eventually pull them apart.
Blending poetry, grime music and movement, the production explores neurodivergence in a way that feels thoughtful and genuine. That care isn’t just contained within the play itself. From the moment you arrive, there’s a clear effort to make everyone feel comfortable — with a relaxation area available to use, small fidget toys offered, and reassurance before the show begins that audience members are free to move around, leave, or do whatever helps them feel at ease. There’s a real understanding of the neurodivergent world here, and a sense that everyone is truly welcome. The cosy, intimate feel of the Playhouse only adds to that warmth.
Written by Debris Stevenson and created through conversations with hundreds of young people across the UK, this powerful play is brought to life by Jess Senanayake as Daisy and Tyrese Walters as Luke. Together, they give the story real energy and heart. Playful and energetic in places (Luke’s air-walk pull-ups certainly surprised and impressed the younger members of the audience) There is also something tender beneath the surface — a story about being seen, misunderstood, and trying to find your place in a world that’s very quick to label.
The story begins with the news that, for the first time, the twins are to be separated as they move on to big school. The uncertainty and change this brings are portrayed with real emotion by both performers. Daisy struggles to be understood, and while life for Luke may initially appear more straightforward and successful from the outside, it soon becomes clear that it can also be deeply lonely. As the play unfolds, we see that for both characters — as they grow up — falling, failing and flying are all part of life, whatever label society tries to give you.
The play truly comes alive through the music, delivered brilliantly by both actors, adding rhythm, emotion and real energy to the storytelling.
It’s a powerful piece that helps people like me better understand the neurodivergent world, while also ensuring those within it feel genuinely seen. At a time when so much feels rushed and overwhelming, this kind of storytelling feels important and timely while reminding us all that sometimes, we just need to hide in a toilet — and that’s okay. Jess Senanayake and Tyrese Walters both deliver standout performances, and I’ll certainly be looking out for them in the future.