Starring Outlander’s Lauren Lyle and Poldark’s Alexander Arnold
Soho Theatre in London is set to revive the one act comedy Most Favoured by award-winning playwright David Ireland (The Fifth Step, Ulster American).
Most Favoured is playing a strictly limited season at Soho Theatre this Christmas, from 11 December 2025 to 24 January 2026.
The show runs from 6.30pm for 45 minutes.
Directed by Associate Director at Soho Theatre Max Elton (The End of Hope), Most Favoured will star Lauren Lyle (Karen Pirie, Outlander, Vigil) and Alexander Arnold (Skins, A Mother’s Son, Poldark).
The creative team also includes Set & Costume Designer Ceci Calf, Lighting Designer Amy Daniels, and Sound Designer Marcus Rice. The show is produced by Sarah Roy of 19th Street Productions and María Inés Olmedo of María Inés Olmedo Projects in association with Soho Theatre.
In the play, Mary’s been sleeping with strangers across Scotland for eight months. Tonight’s conquest: Mike, an American tourist who’s never heard of KFC.
After the best sex of her life, she tells him what she’s been hiding. Then he tells her what he’s been hiding.
David Ireland’s Most Favoured is part of a season of new writing in Soho Theatre’s Main House including Eoin McAndrew’s Little Brother, Miriam Battye’s The Virgins, Sarah Power’s Welcome to Pemfort and Dave Harris’s Tender.
David Ireland’s play The Fifth Step recently played at @SohoPlace Theatre in London starring Jack Lowden and Martin Freeman. The production is screening in UK and international cinemas courtesy of NT Live from 27 November.
Actor Lauren Lyle said in a statement: “I am so excited to be returning to the stage – even more thrilling it’s with David Ireland’s new play. Most Favoured is some of the best and spiciest writing I’ve read. David, one of the finest of our time, has become known for saying things we aren’t allowed to talk about, and I can’t wait to explore the humour and danger of Mary and Mike in the rehearsal room and on the main stage. To be at the Soho Theatre, infamous for its highest quality and impeccable vibes, over Christmas and New Year? Quite sexy.”
Alexander Arnold said: “David writes with brilliant humour and sincerity. I’m excited to dive into his writing and can’t wait to perform at such an iconic theatre, with such an exciting creative team, and to share the stage with someone as sharp and hilarious as Lauren.”
Max Elton said: “Working together with David again and returning to direct this play at the first place we did it is so hugely exciting. I defy anyone not to be moved by this intimate popcorn chicken bucket of a play!”
Most Favoured is running at Soho Theatre from 11 December 2025 until 24 January 2026.
More about tickets to Most Favoured at Soho Theatre in London
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