London’s theatre scene is about to welcome a stirring American drama with star power to match. Emmy-nominated actor Joe Locke best known for his breakout performance in Heartstopper and Marvel’s Agatha All Along is stepping onto the West End stage for the very first time in the UK premiere of Clarkston, an emotionally rich play by acclaimed writer Samuel D. Hunter (The Whale).
Clarkston traces the story of Jake and Chris, two young men charting a new kind of frontier – one that echoes the spirit of explorers Lewis and Clark but leads to inner revelations, shared dreams, and the warmth of human connection.
Directed by Obie and Drama Desk Award-winning Jack Serio, Clarkston brings together an exceptional cast: Locke will star opposite Ruaridh Mollica (Sebastian, The Franchise) and Sophie Melville (Iphigenia in Splott, The Way) in a heartfelt exploration of self-discovery, love and the hope for something more set against the backdrop of a Costco night shift in rural America.
“Samuel D. Hunter’s writing is so deeply human and honest that I immediately connected with the play,” said Locke. “I can’t wait to share this beautiful story with London audiences.”
Hunter shared his excitement, saying the production is “a dream come true” and reflects universal themes of love and friendship in uncertain times.
The play will run for a strictly limited engagement this autumn. Audiences can sign up now to be the first to know when tickets go on sale at www.clarkstonplay.co.uk.

