The Young Vic has announced the cast for the world premiere of Sting, a new play by Sophie Swithinbank, directed by Nancy Medina.
The production runs from 18 June to 18 July 2026 in the Maria Studio, with a press night on 23 June.
Adelle Leonce, Nick Blood and Phoebe Ladenburg star in the sharply contemporary new work, described as a bitingly funny and surreal thriller exploring power, belief and control.
Set within the intimacy of the Young Vic’s Maria Studio, Sting examines systemic injustice within institutions that claim to protect us.
The story follows Ash, a young woman juggling late nights and a new job cataloguing historic cases of women accused of witchcraft.
As her relationship with her boss Lily intensifies, and her boyfriend Dom positions himself as her protector, unsettling questions arise about who truly holds power.
Adelle Leonce plays Ash, with Phoebe Ladenburg as Lily and Nick Blood as Dom.
Writer Sophie Swithinbank said:
“When I was writing Sting, I thought, no one will ever programme this – it’s quite feral and fingers some dangerous truths about our society. The fact that Nadia Fall has programmed it is proof of what I’ve always suspected – the Young Vic is London’s most punk and fearless theatre.”
Director Nancy Medina said:
“Sophie’s writing is mercurial, sharp and funny. It explodes off the page and invites us to lean in and listen. I cannot wait for audiences to experience Sting, brought to life by the magic of this incredible cast.”
The creative team includes designer Debbie Duru, lighting designer Ryan Day, sound designer Nicola T. Chang and movement director Rachael Nanyonjo.
Sting is a Young Vic production and was developed with Lidless Theatre, inspired by concepts from Waking the Witch.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
