New rehearsal photography has been unveiled for the UK premiere of Clarkston, written by Samuel D. Hunter and directed by Jack Serio, ahead of its strictly limited nine-week run at Trafalgar Theatre.
Starring Joe Locke in his West End debut, the production also features Ruaridh Mollica and Sophie Melville.
Locke, best known for his breakout role in Heartstopper and Marvel’s Agatha All Along, will perform opposite Mollica, BIFA-nominated for Sebastian, and Melville, Evening Standard Award-nominated for Iphigenia in Splott.
Clarkston will run from 17 September to 22 November 2025 at Trafalgar Theatre.
“You have this idea in your head of the person you could be”
Set in a rural American town, Clarkston follows Jake on a journey westward to rediscover himself. Along the way, he meets Chris, a kindred spirit working the night shift at Costco. Their growing bond sparks a sense of adventure and the possibility of a new beginning.
“Maybe we’re like the last American pioneers”
The play explores themes of friendship, acceptance, love, and the hope of new discoveries.
The creative team includes Milla Clarke (set and costume design), Stacey Derosier (lighting), George Dennis (sound), Stuart Burt (casting), and John Baker (dramaturgy). The production is executive produced and general managed by Wessex Grove.
Joe Locke’s stage credits include The Trials at Donmar Warehouse and Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street on Broadway. He won the Best Professional Debut Award at the WhatsOnStage Awards in 2023.
Samuel D. Hunter’s acclaimed works include The Whale, A Case for the Existence of God, and A Bright New Boise. His film adaptation of The Whale won two Oscars and was nominated for a BAFTA.
Ruaridh Mollica is a Screen International Rising Star Scotland 2024 and has appeared in The Franchise, Witness Number 3, and Red Rose. He will also feature in A Thousand Blows for Disney.
Sophie Melville’s recent credits include Cowbois (RSC/Royal Court) and The Way (BBC). Her stage work includes Girl in the Machine, The Merchant of Venice, and Wolfie.
Director Jack Serio’s recent credits include Grangeville, Uncle Vanya, and This Beautiful Future. He is a Drama Desk and Obie award-winner.
Listings and ticket information can be found here
