The Young Vic has announced casting for Girls, Theresa Ikoko’s award-winning play, which runs in the Maria Theatre from 22 October to 21 November 2026, with a press night on 27 October.
Directed by Ewa Dina in her Young Vic debut, the production was selected as the winner of the 2026 JMK Award. Ikoko’s powerful drama previously won the Alfred Fagon Award and was also recognised with the George Devine Award.
Set in Nigeria in 2014, Girls follows teenagers Tisana, Haleema and Ruhab, whose lives are transformed when they are kidnapped by militant insurgents and forced towards an uncertain future.
As fear grows and religious differences begin to strain their friendship, the three young women must rely on one another in extraordinary circumstances.
The cast includes Hannah Akhalu as Tisana, Tara Tijani as Haleema and Sewa Zamba as Ruhab.
Ewa Dina said: “I’m thrilled to be working with these three women. Each of them has demonstrated a deep commitment to telling this story with authenticity and nuance. I trust them implicitly to bring their humanity and artistry into the work and can’t wait to get into the room!”
The creative team includes Raphaé Memon as set and costume designer, Simisola Majekodunmi as lighting designer, féz as composer, Munotida Chinyanga as sound designer, dkfash as movement director and Haruka Kuroda as fight and intimacy director.
Produced by the Young Vic, Girls will be staged in the theatre’s intimate Maria Theatre space, continuing the venue’s commitment to championing new writing and emerging directorial talent.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
