Paines Plough today announce that Archie Backhouse and Letty Thomas will reprise their roles in Miriam Battye’s hit play Strategic Love Play when it returns to Soho Theatre from 22 May – 15 June, now playing in the theatre’s Main House.
Strategic Love Play returns to the stage after an award-winning, sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2023, followed by a UK tour which included a stint at Soho Theatre, where it played the Upstairs Space. Letty Thomas and Archie Backhouse, having originated the lead roles in 2023, will make their return in this new run.
Written by Miriam Battye (Succession, Scenes with girls at the Royal Court) and directed by Paines Plough’s Joint Artistic Director Katie Posner, Strategic Love Play takes place on an awkward first date, speaking uncomfortable truths about modern dating and romance with acid wit.
Miriam Battye said: “Letty and Archie are completely magnificent. I’m overjoyed there’s another chance to see them perform these roles that are so close to my heart and guts. I can’t wait for more people to see what they can do.”
Katie Posner said: “Last year’s smash hit Strategic Love Play left audiences fizzing. This play is bursting with killer lines and heart-stopping moments, and really captured the hearts of those who had the chance to see it. Now it’s coming back, and heading into Soho’s main space in May, and I could not be more thrilled. To have the chance to re-open this show with the best cast and team is the best feeling in the world. Don’t miss out.”
For more information go to painesplough.com/productions/strategic-love-play/
The return of Strategic Love Play falls in Paines Plough’s 50th birthday year. To celebrate turning 50, the company has launched their #50for50 fundraising campaign. #50for50 aims to raise £50,000 over the year to enable Paines Plough to continue platforming, producing and touring ground-breaking new plays, and nurture the next generation of writers. There will be special events planned throughout the year to celebrate this landmark moment for the company, which will be announced in due course. You can donate to the fundraising campaign here: painesplough.com/support-us/
