In conversation
Matthew Xia in conversation with Trish Cooke
The director of Small Island reflects on being able to see the bigger picture when putting on plays and how he works with writers to tell their stories on stage.
25th March, 2026
The full cast of Small Island. Photo: Pamela Raith
'My job as a director is all about big picture. Literally to sit at the back of the auditorium and ensure that the story is being told, and then lots of other people will worry about the details.'

Trish Cooke
Trish Cooke writes scripts for theatre, TV, film, radio and she also writes children’s books.
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