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Jermyn Street Theatre has unveiled the first productions in its 2026 season, opening the year with a revival of Lyle Kessler’s Tony Award-nominated modern classic Orphans starring Forbes Masson and the London premiere of Emma Howlett’s acclaimed Aether.

Orphans revival opens January

Directed by former Carne Deputy Director Al Miller, Orphans runs from 5–24 January 2026. Forbes Masson (The High Life – The Musical) leads the cast as Harold, with further casting still to be announced.

Kessler’s play, which premiered on Broadway in 1983, follows two brothers scraping by in North Philadelphia whose lives are upended when one brings home a mysterious stranger. Known for its dark humour and emotional punch, the piece explores themes of family, survival, and unexpected kinship.

The creative team includes Sarah Beaton (set and costume design), Simeon Miller (lighting design), and Donato Wharton (sound design and composition).

Aether brings Fringe hit to London

Following its award-winning, sold-out run at the 2025 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Emma Howlett’s Aether transfers to Jermyn Street for a limited engagement from 16–21 March 2026.

Howlett, Artistic Director of TheatreGoose, directs her own play, which blends physics, faith, and magic into a theatrical investigation of humanity’s fascination with the unknown. The London premiere reunites cast members Gemma Barnett, Sophie Kean, Anna Marks Pryce, and Abby McCann.

The design team features Ellie Wintour (set and costumes), Ed Saunders (lighting), and Sarah Spencer (sound and composition).

Artistic leadership on the new season

Artistic Director Stella Powell-Jones and Co-Artistic Director and Executive Producer David Doyle commented:

“We’re spotlighting two exciting productions ahead of our spring season announcement: Al Miller’s revival of Lyle Kessler’s Orphans and Emma Howlett’s Aether. Al has left a lasting mark on our theatre during his time as Carne Deputy Director, and it’s a joy to welcome him back as a director in his own right. Emma’s Aether captivated Edinburgh audiences, and we’re delighted to share it with London. Both are directors on remarkable journeys, and it’s a privilege to be part of their story.”

The announcements build on Jermyn Street Theatre’s recent successes, including Katherine Moar’s Farm Hall, which transferred to the West End, as well as the world premieres of Roy Williams’ The Lonely Londoners and Stephen Unwin’s Laughing Boy.

The current season

Looking ahead to the remainder of 2025, the theatre continues its tradition of combining bold new writing with inventive adaptations. Katherine Moar’s latest play Ragdoll receives its world premiere in October, followed in November by a fresh stage version of Charles Dickens’ David Copperfield. Together, these productions underline Jermyn Street’s commitment to championing new voices while reimagining classic stories for contemporary audiences.

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Main photo: Jermyn St Theatre 2026 season. Images provided by PR.

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