Play

Walking into King’s Head Theatre, you can feel a tension in the air. This is not the kind of show that lets you sit back comfortably. It asks you to lean in, to let yourself be unsettled. Philip Ridley’s debut, The Pitchfork Disney, has returned in a revival by Lidless Theatre under the direction of Max Harrison, and it still feels as sharp and disturbing as when it first appeared. It is less a traditional play and more a waking nightmare, a blend of fairy tale, dark humour and raw fear that leaves you questioning what theatre can do to the nerves.

Walking into Till the Stars Come Down feels like stepping into a lived‑in world of laughter, secrets, and simmering tensions. Set in a former coal‑mining town in Nottinghamshire, the play opens on Sylvia’s wedding morning, capturing that peculiar truth of weddings: ritualised joy masking simmering unrest. Written by Beth Steel and directed by Bijan Sheibani, it unfolds over 24 hours, pulling the audience into a labyrinth of family, class, love—and the things left unsaid.

"A Good House," penned by South African playwright Amy Jephta, is a compelling theatrical piece that delves into the complexities of community dynamics and the often ambiguous boundaries of neighborly conduct. Set in the seemingly tranquil suburb of Stillwater, the narrative is ignited by the sudden emergence of a mysterious shack, its occupants conspicuously absent. This anomaly becomes a catalyst, unraveling the veneer of suburban harmony and exposing the underlying tensions and prejudices within the community.

The King of Broken Things at Riverside Studios is an evocative and deeply moving theatrical experience, blending storytelling, visual artistry, and poignant themes of resilience and transformation. This 55-minute production, written and directed by Michael Taylor-Broderick and performed by Cara Roberts, is a perfect outing for audiences aged 10 and above, offering layers of meaning for both children and adults.

Deck the Stalls at Riverside Studios is an irreverent and hilariously sharp alternative to the usual festive fare. Written by Lydia Kavanagh and directed by Chloe Cattin, this one-woman play, starring Laura Rea as Serena, dives headfirst into the chaos of an office Christmas party gone horribly wrong. The production offers biting humor, emotional depth, and a heavy dose of relatability for anyone who has endured awkward workplace traditions.

The Lonely Londoners, adapted by Roy Williams from Sam Selvon’s seminal novel, is a poignant and vibrant exploration of the lives of Trinidadian immigrants in 1950s London. Directed by Ebenezer Bamgboye and set to open at the Kiln Theatre, the production captures the struggles, dreams, and camaraderie of the Windrush generation with emotional depth and stylistic flair. This adaptation follows its highly acclaimed run at Jermyn Street Theatre, where it won praise for its sharp dialogue and evocative storytelling.

The Legends of Them at the Royal Court Theatre is a moving and electrifying autobiographical play written and performed by reggae pioneer Sutara Gayle, also known as Lorna Gee. This Hackney Showroom production, directed by Jo McInnes, is a heartfelt exploration of Gayle’s life, blending high-energy musical numbers, raucous comedy, and deeply personal moments. The play is a celebration of resilience, culture, and the search for spiritual enlightenment.

Much Ado About Nothing Remixed, presented by Intermission Youth Theatre at the Collective Theatre in London, is a vibrant and modern reimagining of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy. Directed by Nana Antwi and written by Darren Raymond, this adaptation places the drama in a contemporary London context, intertwining the timeless themes of love, deception, and gender dynamics with Gen-Z flair.