THE FIFTH STEP Brings Martin Freeman and Jack Lowden to the West End

It’s not every day you see Martin Freeman and Jack Lowden sharing a stage in the heart of London’s theatre district. When a play sparks the curiosity of two award-winning actors with diverse credits and devoted fan followings, it’s bound to stir excitement among theatregoers. Factor in the razor-sharp writing of David Ireland, and you have a recipe for a production that might just become the next big thing on the West End.

The Journey to the West End

THE FIFTH STEP had its first outing in Scotland last summer during the Edinburgh International Festival. Back then, Jack Lowden took on a leading role, and even in a festival brimming with outstanding shows, Ireland’s new play caused a stir. Word quickly spread that its blend of dark humour and emotional candour made it a highlight of the season. Lowden’s performance was acclaimed for its intensity and vulnerability—hallmarks of an actor who’s not afraid to inhabit complex characters.

Now, that same creative force behind the original production is heading south to London’s @sohoplace for an 11-week run, opening on 10 May and concluding on 26 July 2025. Co-produced by Neal Street Productions, Playful Productions and National Theatre of Scotland, the piece benefits from a powerhouse team with a track record of breathing life into challenging and original work. In many ways, this transfer embodies the seamless collaboration between Scotland’s lively theatre culture and London’s global stage.

A Star Pairing to Remember

There’s little doubt that audiences will flock to see two high-calibre actors like Jack Lowden and Martin Freeman in the same play. Lowden’s triumphant homecoming to the role, combined with Freeman’s first-time venture into Ireland’s world, sets the stage for a compelling onstage dynamic. Both men are no strangers to intense character work—Lowden has earned raves for his portrayals in everything from historical dramas to thrillers, while Freeman’s range spans from comedic brilliance in The Office to nuanced gravitas in Sherlock and the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Lowden has publicly expressed his excitement at sharing scenes with Freeman, whom he calls an “actor of black belt level skill.” It’s a sentiment that’s obviously mutual, as Freeman has described working with Lowden as an opportunity he deeply respects. Beyond the star power, there’s a genuine artistic synergy that suggests THE FIFTH STEP might offer more than just two big names on a marquee—it could become one of the must-see productions of the year.

What to Expect from David Ireland’s Newest Work

The name David Ireland has been gaining significant traction on both sides of the Atlantic. Known for his provocative and darkly comic approach, Ireland isn’t one to shy away from weighty subjects. THE FIFTH STEP is grounded in personal experience, weaving themes of addiction, masculinity and faith into a narrative that aims to both challenge and entertain.

This isn’t Ireland’s first brush with acclaim. His past plays, such as Cyprus Avenue, have garnered praise for their incisive look at social and political tensions, often framed through a lens of sharp wit. Ireland’s ability to dissect deep-rooted issues within seemingly ordinary contexts sets his work apart. If you find yourself drawn to theatre that balances hearty laughs with moments of raw discomfort, you’ll likely appreciate what he brings to the table in THE FIFTH STEP.

Behind the Scenes: The Creative Team

Another factor propelling the show’s momentum is the calibre of its creative talent. Under the direction of Finn den Hertog, who orchestrated the original Scottish run, the production has an air of continuity that should reassure fans who want to see the same spark that lit up Edinburgh. Den Hertog’s style—insightful, yet unafraid to push boundaries—complements Ireland’s writing, ensuring that the script’s edginess doesn’t overshadow its emotional core.

A host of top-tier designers round out the team. Milla Clarke is responsible for set and costume design, promising a visual aesthetic that mirrors the play’s stark themes. Lizzie Powell handles lighting design, helping to shape the atmosphere that underscores crucial emotional beats. Mark Melville’s sound design could well be the linchpin that heightens tension in a show dealing with faith, addiction, and the darkness that can lie beneath everyday life. And with movement by Jenny Ogilvie and casting by Stuart Burt, every aspect of the production seems carefully calibrated to make the narrative resonate as powerfully as possible.

Contemporary Themes

Even though THE FIFTH STEP draws on Ireland’s personal encounters, addiction and struggles with masculinity resonate far beyond any one individual’s story. In the UK, recent data from NHS studies indicate that alcohol-related hospital admissions and drug misuse remain significant concerns, pointing to an ongoing need for cultural dialogues around addiction. Theatre has long served as a space where such societal issues can be examined in ways that feel both safe and challenging.

Moreover, the question of faith—whether religious, secular, or spiritual—remains a cornerstone of human identity. At a time when the public discourse on belief systems often takes place online in echo chambers, live theatre offers a communal space for reflection. That sense of shared humanity might be one reason why Ireland’s plays have drawn audiences and critics alike, bridging the gap between personal anecdote and universal relevance.

Authentic Roots

While it’s not uncommon for playwrights to draw on personal experiences, Ireland’s decision to root THE FIFTH STEP in his own journey with addiction and questions of belief brings a raw authenticity that can’t be easily replicated. Many modern plays tackling difficult subjects can feel clinical or detached. Ireland flips that notion on its head, presenting his material with a dark humour that keeps the audience off-balance—laughing one moment, cringing the next.

This kind of personal storytelling also raises the stakes for everyone involved. From the actors to the creative team, there’s an added sense of responsibility that comes with staging a deeply personal work. One might argue that this emotional weight is precisely what theatre should strive for. After all, the best plays aren’t just performed; they’re lived, both by the people onstage and those who witness it.

Looking Beyond the West End

While the primary excitement is around the London run, there’s always the possibility that THE FIFTH STEP will expand its reach. For those outside the UK, keep an eye out for potential international tours or festival appearances that could bring David Ireland’s distinctive voice to new audiences. Occasionally, British productions take a route that passes through festivals in Australia—particularly those in cities like Sydney, known for hosting cutting-edge, internationally acclaimed theatre. If the show garners enough momentum, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see it branching out globally, continuing the conversation on addiction, masculinity, and faith far beyond London’s theatre scene.

As tickets go on sale—mark your diary for 10am on 23 January—anyone with a passion for contemporary theatre should consider snagging seats. THE FIFTH STEP isn’t just another West End transfer; it’s a fresh, challenging work backed by an award-winning team and starring two powerhouse performers eager to share the stage. It promises to delve into corners of the human experience that many of us may recognise but rarely talk about, sparking laughs in one breath and sober introspection in the next.

In a cultural moment that often feels dominated by the next big musical or high-profile revival, THE FIFTH STEP stands out as something new and brave. You might leave the theatre feeling unsettled or inspired—or both—but you certainly won’t leave indifferent. Keep your eyes peeled for tomorrow’s exclusive interview with David Ireland, where we’ll dive even deeper into the origins and driving forces behind this bold production. Given the talent gathered for this project, it’s safe to say the West End is in for a transformative run that audiences won’t soon forget.