Stockard Channing will make her directorial debut with a new production of Krapp’s Last Tape, starring David Westhead, ahead of a run at the Edinburgh Festival.
The production will play Upstairs at The Roxy from 5 to 31 August 2026, with London preview performances taking place at Calder Theatre on The Cut on 24 and 25 July.
The Samuel Beckett classic will see Westhead take on the role of Krapp, a 69-year-old man reflecting on his life through old tape recordings.
Channing’s decision to direct the piece is rooted in her long-standing friendship and creative partnership with Westhead, as well as their shared desire to raise funds for The Wembley to Soweto Foundation.
David Westhead said, “I saw the play in my youth and suddenly I’m the right age to play Krapp. We rehearsed in Stockard’s kitchen. I was Krapp. Literally and metaphorically. Her first comment was, “Well, who the hell’s going to watch this?” Slowly things improved and we moved gingerly into the lounge. The play involves a couple of bananas. Benny the dog kept trying to eat them. So, we moved back into the kitchen.”
Stockard Channing added, “David assured me we’d only play his pal’s arts centre for the charity, and now we are taking it to Edinburgh for Wembley To Soweto! I don’t think he will mind too much if I assert that David Westhead is truly Krapp. Talk about Theatre of the Absurd.”
The production explores Beckett’s 50-minute masterpiece, bringing humour, heartbreak and reflection to the solitary world of its central character.
Channing will also join Westhead for selected post-show Q&A sessions during the Edinburgh run, offering audiences further insight into the play.
The project is also a charitable endeavour, with proceeds supporting The Wembley to Soweto Foundation, which provides training and opportunities for disadvantaged young people worldwide.
London audiences will have an early opportunity to see the production at Calder Theatre, in the same location where Beckett’s early work was once staged.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
