The Royal Shakespeare Company, in association with Kiln Theatre, has announced full casting for Driftwood, a new play by Martina Laird directed by Justin Audibert. The production will open at The Other Place in Stratford‑upon‑Avon from 17 April to 30 May 2026, ahead of a London run at Kiln Theatre from 3 June to 4 July.
The cast includes Shane David‑Joseph as Seldom, Ziggy Heath as Tom, Martins Imhangbe as Diamond, Roger Ringrose as Mansion, Ellen Thomas as Pearl and Cat White as Ruby.
Martina Laird said: “Making my playwriting debut at the Royal Shakespeare Company and Kiln Theatre with Driftwood is both an honour and a joy. This play grew from a deep desire to explore inherited patterns, the desire for connection and self-determination, and to place Caribbean voices and histories at the centre of the story. To see these characters brought to life by such a generous and gifted ensemble, and under Justin Audibert’s direction, feels profoundly moving.”
Set in 1950s colonial Trinidad, Driftwood explores self‑determination, family, belonging and the vibrant tensions of a community on the cusp of political independence. The story centres on ALMA, a gentlemen’s club owned by Englishman Mansion, governed by Pearl and coveted by Ruby. When Diamond arrives with a risky deal involving a corrupt US Marine, the future of ALMA and everyone in it is thrown into jeopardy.
Justin Audibert said: “I feel truly blessed to have assembled such a talented cast led by Martins and Ellen to bring Martina’s wonderfully rich and powerful debut play to audiences in Stratford upon Avon and London.”
The creative team includes set and costume design by Sadeysa Greenaway‑Bailey, lighting design by Simon Spencer, composition by Christella Litras, sound design by Tony Gayle, movement direction by Kloé Dean, dramaturgy by Sebastian Born and casting by Matthew Dewsbury.
Driftwood will feature a range of accessible performances across both venues, including captioned, audio described, relaxed and chilled performances, as well as post show talks.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
