Following its successful run at Chichester Festival Theatre in June, Steven Moffat’s hit comedy The Unfriend is transferring to the West End in 2023.
Directed by Mark Gatiss, the play centres on Peter and Debbie, a middle-class married couple who decide to go on a cruise for a much-needed break from their annoying teenagers. During their holiday, they encounter a slightly eccentric Denver resident, Elsa Jean Krakowski, whose brash nature soon clashes with the couple’s emotional reticence. However, the couple are reassured by the fact that this is just a holiday friendship. After all, they never last, do they?
Imagine their surprise when Elsa suddenly invites herself to their home months later. When a quick google search of her name reveals some worrying information, the couple face a huge dilemma—how to protect your loved ones without appearing impolite?
The original cast will all reunite for the West End production which stars Reece Shearsmith and Amanda Abbington in the roles of Peter and Debbie. Frances Barber will also be reprising her role as Elsa alongside Gabriel Howell as Alex, Maddie Holliday as Rosie, Marcus Onilude as PC Junkin and Michael Simkins as The Neighbour.
The Unfriend also features design by Robert Jones, lighting design by Mark Henderson and sound design by Ella Wahlström.
Steven Moffat shares his excitement for the West End transfer: “I am beyond thrilled that The Unfriend is going to the West End. Working on this show with my old friend, Mark, and my new friends, the amazing cast and crew, has been one of the happiest experiences of my professional life. They’ve all been very kind to a beginner.”
The production will move to London’s Criterion Theatre, beginning with previews on 15 January and running until 16 April. Tickets are available for purchase on the Criterion Theatre website.
Words by Katie Heyes
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Image Credit: Manuel Harlan