This festive season, Soho Theatre will present Most Favoured, a sharply comedic one-act play by acclaimed playwright David Ireland.
Running from 11 December 2025 to 24 January 2026, Most Favoured stars Lauren Lyle (Karen Pirie, Outlander, Vigil) and Alexander Arnold (Skins, A Mother’s Son, Poldark), and is directed by Soho Theatre Associate Director Max Elton.
With a running time of just 45 minutes and a 6.30pm start, the production offers the perfect theatrical amuse-bouche before a night out.
Mary’s been sleeping with strangers across Scotland for eight months. Tonight’s conquest: Mike, an American tourist who’s never heard of KFC.
After the best sex of her life, she tells him what she’s been hiding.
Then he tells her what he’s been hiding.
Lauren Lyle said: “I am so excited to be returning to stage – even more thrilling it’s with David Ireland’s new play. Most Favoured is some of the best and spiciest writing I’ve read. David, one of the finest of our time, has become known for saying things we aren’t allowed to talk about, and I can’t wait to explore the humour and danger of Mary and Mike in the rehearsal room and on the main stage. To be at the Soho Theatre, infamous for its highest quality and impeccable vibes, over Christmas and New Year? Quite sexy.”
Alexander Arnold said: “David writes with brilliant humour and sincerity. I’m excited to dive into his writing and can’t wait to perform at such an iconic theatre, with such an exciting creative team, and to share the stage with someone as sharp and hilarious as Lauren.”
Director Max Elton added: “Working together with David again and returning to direct this play at the first place we did it is so hugely exciting. I defy anyone not to be moved by this intimate popcorn chicken bucket of a play!”
Most Favoured is part of Soho Theatre’s season of new writing, which also includes Little Brother by Eoin McAndrew, The Virgins by Miriam Battye, Welcome to Pemfort by Sarah Power, and Tender by Dave Harris.
The creative team includes set and costume designer Ceci Calf, lighting designer Amy Daniels, and sound designer Marcus Rice. The production is presented by Sarah Roy of 19th Street Productions and María Inés Olmedo of María Inés Olmedo Projects in association with Soho Theatre.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
