English
English
1 hr 30 min with no interval
DURATION
CLOSING DATE
Until July 26, 2025
AGE LIMIT
Suitable for 16+ yrs
from
£66
AboutVenueTickets
Why watch The Fifth Step?
- See powerhouse performances from Jack Lowden (Olivier Award winner, BAFTA nominee for Slow Horses) and Martin Freeman (Emmy, BAFTA, and SAG Award winner for Sherlock) in this raw, gripping drama.
- Acclaimed playwright David Ireland's brilliantly subversive storytelling fearlessly explores addiction recovery through sharp dialogue and devastating revelations.
- The sold-out Edinburgh International Festival hit brings audiences uncomfortably close to the psychological battlefield of male emotion, as the quest for sobriety unravels deeper, darker truths about masculinity and belief.
The Fifth Step made its world premiere at the 2024 Edinburgh International Festival to critical acclaim before transferring to London's @sohoplace for this strictly limited 11-week West End run. The play continues David Ireland's reputation for creating provocative, challenging work that tackles complex contemporary issues with unflinching honesty. The creative team includes set and costume design by Milla Clarke, with a notable revolving set that partially collapses to reveal its innards – a visual metaphor for the characters' psychological unraveling.
Watch the intimate two-hander as it explores the fifth step of Alcoholics Anonymous' twelve-step program with tickets to the play in London.
Storyline
Young alcoholic Luka reluctantly joins AA and finds himself paired with James, a long-time program veteran who becomes his sponsor. The straightforward social agreement slowly turns into a complex bed of entanglements as they approach the fifth step: confession. As their fragile trust builds through black coffee and shared stories, it becomes increasingly unclear who truly needs saving. This provocative, entertaining, and subversively funny drama explores addiction, masculinity, faith, and the difficult journey toward redemption in a somber one-part play.
Show timings
Show timings for The Fifth Step may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & crew
- Leading roles: Jack Lowden as Luka and Martin Freeman as James
- Director: Finn Den Hertog
- Playwright: David Ireland
- Casting: Stuart Burt CDG
- Set & costume designer: Milla Clarke
- Sound designer: Mark Melville
- Lighting designer: Lizzie Powell
Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
Age & content guide
- This show is not appropriate for children under the age of 16 years. It contains strong language, comments on religion, and sexual themes. Viewer discretion is advised.
- All persons must carry a valid ticket for entry.
- Please keep in mind that the theater does not have an age classification organization. This means that all age recommendations are subjective. Please use your judgment while purchasing tickets for any show.
@sohoplace Read more
The first newly built theater on the West End in 50 years, @sohoplace was the culmination of a 12-year project. Despite being relatively new, the theater has earned a respected place in London’s theater scene owing to its unique programming under the ownership of Nica Burns.
The @sohoplace Seating Plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting there
Address: 4 Soho Pl, Charing Cross Rd, London W1D 3BG, United Kingdom
Tube: Tottenham Court Road Station (Elizabeth Line) is the closest to the venue.
Bus: Take any among the 14, 19, 22b, 24, 29, 38, or 176 buses to Covent Garden, closest to the venue.
Train: Charing Cross Station is a 15-18 minute walk or short ride from the theater.
Facilities & accessibility
Available facilities: bar, air conditioning, restrooms, elevator
Accessibility: accessible restrooms, wheelchair accessible, guide dogs allowed
Additional information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't allowed inside, the hotel complex hosts many cafes or restaurants inside for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets redemption
- You’ll get an instant email confirmation right after you book your tickets.
- Enjoy a hassle-free entrance to the venue by showing your mobile ticket and a valid photo ID – no printout necessary!
Cancellation & refunds
- Tickets cannot be refunded, amended, or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions about The Fifth Step
How much do the The Fifth Step tickets cost?
The cost of the tickets starts from £25 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
What age is The Fifth Step appropriate for?
The show contains strong language and adult themes. It is most suitable for children and adults above the age of 16.
Where is The Fifth Step playing in London?
The show is playing at @sohoplace in London.
What is The Fifth Step about?
The play follows two men in AA - a newcomer and his sponsor - who form a fragile bond when secrets emerge during their path to recovery.
How long does The Fifth Step run for?
The running time is 1 hr 30 min with no intermission.
Who are the main stars of The Fifth Step?
The main stars of the show are Jack Lowden starring as Luka and Martin Freeman playing the role of James.