New play The Fifth Step at the West End’s @SohoPlace Theatre has cancelled its first two preview performances.
The play starring Jack Lowden and Martin Freeman was originally scheduled to start on 10 May 2025, but the first two preview performances have been cancelled. The show is now starting on 12 May 2025.
David Ireland’s acclaimed new play is transferring to London following its premiere at the Edinburgh Festival last year, running at @SohoPlace Theatre for a strictly limited season until 26 July 2025.
The London production stars Olivier Award-winner Jack Lowden (Slow Horses), reprising his critically acclaimed performance as Luka, and Emmy Award-winner Martin Freeman (Sherlock, The Hobbit) as James.
The Fifth Step is directed by Finn den Hertog, associate artist at the National Theatre of Scotland, with a creative team that also includes Set and Costume designer Milla Clarke; Lighting designer Lizzie Powell; Sound designer Mark Melville; Movement director Jenny Ogilvie; and Casting director Stuart Burt CDG.
David Ireland’s funny and unflinchingly honest drama is about addiction, masculinity and faith.
After many years in the 12-step programme of Alcoholics Anonymous, James agrees to become the sponsor of newcomer Luka. On the journey to sobriety, the pair bond over black coffee, trade stories, and build a fragile friendship out of their shared experiences. On the cusp of Step 5, their conversations must turn to confessionals, with progress hinging on Luka revealing secrets that could lead back to alcohol. But it’s clear that James also has dangerous truths in his past, truths that threaten the trust on which both their recoveries depend.
The Fifth Step is produced in London by Neal Street Productions, Playful Productions and National Theatre of Scotland, in association with Nica Burns.
The Fifth Step is playing at @SohoPlace Theatre in London from 12 May until 26 July 2025.
More about tickets to The Fifth Step at @SohoPlace Theatre in London
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