The Fifth Step London

Don’t miss The Fifth Step, an innovative and provocative new play from acclaimed playwright David Ireland, arriving in London at the sleek and modern @sohoplace, straight from its Edinburgh debut. 

Get ready to be on the edge of your seat as the story unfolds around Luka, a recovering alcoholic who joins a 12-step programme and finds himself under the guidance of a no-nonsense mentor, James. But there’s one strict rule: no secrets allowed.

What follows is a razor-sharp exchange as the two men delve deeper into their pasts – with confessions sparking jaw-dropping moments.

What to expect when seeing The Fifth Step in London

Following a critically acclaimed, sold-out run in Edinburgh, The Fifth Step makes its much-anticipated London debut – this time with Jack Lowden joined onstage by the brilliant Martin Freeman.

Written by David Ireland, this bold new play dives into the world of recovery, as two men – one a newcomer, the other a mentor – navigate the emotionally charged journey of the 12-step AA programme. Over coffee and shared stories, a fragile friendship begins to form. That is, until they reach step five…

Memories come to the surface – some painful, others shameful, some too dangerous to stay hidden. As confessions spill out, emotions run high, with anger, guilt and uneasy truths bubbling, pushing Luka to the edge and putting everything he’s worked for at risk.

Get ready to be pulled into a whirlwind of raw emotion, where tensions simmer, violent truths erupt and confessions have nowhere left to hide.

Who is The Fifth Step cast?

The play brings Olivier Award-winning actor Jack Lowden (Slow Horses) back to the stage as Luka, a role he first brought to life in Edinburgh. This time, he’s joined by Emmy and BAFTA winner Martin Freeman, known for his roles as John Watson in Sherlock and Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit.

The Fifth Step London ticket information

Book your tickets for The Fifth Step online with Visit London by clicking on the Book Now button on this screen. 

When booking, you will be able to select the seats of your choice and see the ticket prices available for this musical. 

The show is showing for a limited 10 weeks from 12 May to 26 July 2025.

Where are the best seats at Soho Place?

The intimate venue puts the audience at the heart of the action of The Fifth Step, showcasing the intense interactions between the two and only protagonists of the play. For the best experience, select seats in the stalls, where you can experience every confession up close. Soho Place’s round design means there really isn’t a bad seat – just different angles.

The Fifth Step running time

The play is 90 minutes long, with no interval.

What time is the evening show?

Evening performances take place from Monday to Saturday at 7.30pm.

Are there any matinee performances?

The Fifth Step matinees are on Thursdays and Saturdays at 2.30pm.

Soho Place venue details

The Fifth Step is showing in London at @sohoplace Theatre on Charing Cross Road.

How to get there: 

• Tube – Tottenham Court Road is the closest Tube station (Central, Northern and Elizabeth lines), just a few minutes away from the theatre.
• Bus – You can catch the following buses which stop on Denmark Street: 14, 24, 29, 176, N5, N19, N29, N38, N41 and N279).
• Cycling – Rent a Santander Cycles bike and head towards Soho Square where bike docks can be found. 

Is there an age restriction?

The Fifth Step is recommended for anyone aged 16 and over. Please note that this play contains strong language, with topics including religion and sexual themes.

What other shows can I see in London?

Experience gripping drama in true Agatha Christie style with The Mousetrap at St Martin’s Theatre – the world’s longest-running production. Or catch the powerful revival of All My Sons at Wyndham’s Theatre, which follows the true story of a businessman caught up in criminal dealings while struggling to hold his family together.