In the dim glow of late-night cafés and the quiet corners of recovery meetings, two men navigate the treacherous path of sobriety. Luka, a newcomer to the 12-step programme, seeks guidance from James, a seasoned sponsor. As they bond over black coffee and shared stories, the looming Fifth Step — the act of confessing one's deepest regrets — threatens to unravel the fragile trust they've built. But James harbours secrets of his own, blurring the lines between mentor and mentee.
Following a sold-out run at the Edinburgh International Festival, The Fifth Step makes its West End debut at @sohoplace. Olivier Award-winner Jack Lowden (Slow Horses, Dunkirk) reprises his role as Luka, joined by Emmy, BAFTA, and SAG Award-winner Martin Freeman (The Responder, Sherlock) as James. Directed in-the-round by Finn den Hertog, this provocative new play by David Ireland (Ulster American) delves into themes of addiction, faith, and the complexities of masculinity.
