William Robinson joins the cast of Tom Wright’s new play Please Please Me, a world‑premiere production exploring the life and legacy of Brian Epstein. The show opens at Kiln Theatre this spring.
The play dives into the hidden struggles of the ‘Fifth Beatle’, uncovering the emotional world behind the rise of one of the most influential bands in music history. William shares insight into taking on the roles of Peter and Mike.
Please Please Me runs at the Kiln Theatre from 16 April to 29 May 2026. Tickets are available here.
You’re starring in Please Please Me at the Kiln Theatre. What can you tell us about the show?
Please Please Me charts the incredible years of Brian Epstein as he discovers and manages The Beatles, and how he navigates their meteoric success and fame whilst battling with his own demons.
You play Peter and Mike in the production. What drew you to these roles, and what do you enjoy most about portraying them?
What interested me in playing Peter and Mike was exploring two very different queer men in the 1960s.
When we first meet them, their sexuality is deemed illegal, and that affects them both in vastly different ways. I find that contrast really compelling to explore.
The play explores Brian Epstein’s hidden struggles alongside the rise of The Beatles. What aspects of the story resonate most strongly with you as a performer?
What I find most heartening about the play is seeing how someone as successful and polished as Brian can also be an utter mess internally.
It’s so easy to judge your own internal against someone else’s external. I think it’s an important reminder that, although we may see someone who seems to have it all, that’s not quite often the whole story.
You’re working with director Amit Sharma and writer Tom Wright. How has the creative process shaped your experience in the rehearsal room?
Working with Amit and Tom has been an utter joy.
They both bring a delicate mix of levity, warmth and humour to the room, while also having an extremely keen eye for detail. It’s been heaven to work with them both.
Your career spans acclaimed productions from Bacon to Britannicus and Julius Caesar. How has that varied experience influenced your approach to this new project?
The experience of those shows has made me a lot less anxious about needing to have all the answers on day one.
It’s taught me to trust the rehearsal process and let the work reveal itself.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Please Please Me?
Book fast — tickets are selling quickly!
