“Slow Horse” star jack lowden and emmy winner martin freeman Teaming up for West End transfer david ireland‘S “fifth step“Ready to bow at London’s @sohoplace theater for an 11-week limited run starting in May. Director Finn den Hertog is re-imagining the piece for an intimate space.
The drama, which follows the twelve-step journey of Alcoholics Anonymous, focuses on two individuals: James (Freeman), a longtime member of the program who agrees to guide newcomer Luca (Lowden). Over cups of black coffee, the pair form a delicate bond through shared experiences. But as Luca approaches the program’s crucial fifth phase, which demands complete honesty, both men must confront dangerous secrets from their past – revelations that could either strengthen their recovery or send them back into addiction. Can send back towards.
Freeman, who recently won an International Emmy for “The Responder,” said: “I’m really looking forward to performing this brilliantly funny, disturbing, unpredictable drama. David Ireland is quite special and Jack Loden He is an actor for whom I have a lot of respect and I am looking forward to working with him.
Lowden, who originated the role of Luca at the 2024 Edinburgh International Festival under the banner of the National Theater of Scotland, said: “To be in the room again with David and Finn – two dangerously talented individuals – is a gift in itself,” He said said. “But now adding Martin to the mix, an actor of black belt level skill and my hero, tops it all. I can’t wait for more people to experience ‘The Fifth Step’.”
“After a relatively short run with the National Theater of Scotland last year, it is extremely exciting to have the opportunity to revisit and reimagine this play for the West End. I know audiences are in for something really special,” said Den Hertog. “David has always been one of my favorite theater artists – truly a master of his craft – and his trademark acerbic wit, irreverence and subversiveness come through in full force in ‘The Fifth Step.’
The Two-Hander is produced by Neal Street Productions, Playful Productions and the National Theater of Scotland in association with Nika Burns.
Nika Burns, founder of the venue, said: “We are so excited to welcome David Ireland’s brilliant play, performed by two outstanding actors. The production will thrill in the intense intimacy of the @sohoplace auditorium. It’s a perfect fit.”
Previews begin May 10, with an opening night May 19. The limited run ends on July 26, with 15% of all tickets priced at £25 ($31) available to ensure access.