Michaela Coel’s seminal play Chewing Gum Dreams is set to return to London with a brand-new revival at Theatre503. BIFA-nominated actor Lauryn Ajufo will play Tracey Gordon, the role originally performed by Coel herself.
Premiering this September, Chewing Gum Dreams will see a major revival at Theatre503 in South London. The venue is known for promoting and platforming new and early-stage writers. The production marks the first partnership with tiata fahodzi, the UK’s leading British African heritage contemporary theatre company.
Lauryn Ajufo will star as Tracey Gordon in the revival, the role originally played by Michaela Coel herself. Most recently, Ajufo appeared in the Royal Court’s critically acclaimed production of John Proctor is a Villain as Nell.
Writer Michaela Coel commented on the news, saying:‘Theatre503 was one of the early supporters of Chewing Gum Dreams and praised the show greatly during its first run in 2012. It is wonderful to see it have its first UK return there and I’m excited for its opening. Wishing their team the best of luck!’
Lead actress Lauryn Ajufo said: ‘I’m beyond excited to be part of the first UK revival of the renowned play, Chewing Gum Dreams; to step into the shoes of Michaela Coel is truly an honour. I’m looking forward to working with Anthony and the brilliant team at Theatre503 to bring this beautiful piece of theatre back to life. I can’t wait to watch the magic unfold!’
The creative team
This major revival will be directed by Theatre503’s Artistic Director, Anthony Simpson-Pike. Anthony’s credits include the Olivier-Award winning The P Word at the Bush Theatre, in the words of survivors at the National Theatre / St Anne’s Warehouse, New York, and An Octoroon at the Abbey Theatre, Dublin.
Joining him on the creative team are Yimei Zhao (Porn Play) as Set and Costume Designer, Christopher Nairne (The Real Ones) as Lighting Designer, Xana (Alterations) as Sound Designer, Heather Basten CDG (The Harder They Come) as Casting Director and Theophilus O. Bailey (For Black Boys…) as Movement Director.
Previews are set to begin from 10 September 2026.
The play that launched Michaela Coel
With the premiere of Chewing Gum Dreams, Michaela Coel established herself as a remarkable new writing talent. The play, originally developed by the Yard Theatre in 2012 and transferring to The Shed at the National Theatre in 2014, remains a vital work in the contemporary canon. The play would eventually be translated for the screen with Chewing Gum (2015-2017). Coel also starred as Tracey in the two series run of the show.
Since then, she has seen remarkable success. She created, wrote, co-directed, co-produced and starred in the groundbreaking I May Destroy You (HBO/BBC). The series’ list of accolades includes two Emmys, five BAFTAs, three Royal Television Society awards, amongst multiple others.
Coel has also made appearances in numerous films and television series, including Mother Mary alongside Anne Hathaway, Mr and Mrs Smith, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Black Earth Rising and Black Mirror.
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