Thanks for Having Me – Riverside Studios, London

Director: Monica Cox

Writer: Keelan Kember

Riverside Studios hosts a standout performance, Thanks for Having Me, a new play that expertly balances humour, realism, and emotional nuance. This production is a fresh and engaging exploration of modern relationships, friendship, and personal insecurities — all conveyed through sharp dialogue and subtle direction.

Written by Keelan Kember, who also plays one of the characters in the play, the strength of it lies in its authenticity. The story follows Cashel, a newly single and somewhat complicated man, as he attempts to re-enter the dating scene after eight years in a stable and accepting relationship. His best friend, Honey, a 30-year-old singleton who is on a new date each week, takes him in as a flatmate. Honey guides Cashel through the initial and awkward stages of a casual relationship, only to find himself struggling to deal with the new emotions he is now experiencing. The script is exceptionally well-written: witty, naturalistic, and deeply relatable. Every line feels grounded in the way people actually speak, giving the piece a remarkable sense of realism.

The performances are consistently strong, with a cast that clearly understands the rhythm and tone of the piece. The chemistry between Maya (Adeyinka Akinrinade) and Honey (Kedar Williams-Stirling) is particularly compelling — their interactions are nuanced, believable, and often hilariously familiar. Cashel (Kember) is performed with care and is brought to life with confidence and warmth. Nell Tiger Free performs Eloise with natural ease that makes the entirety of her performance feel effortlessly real.

The direction by Monica Cox is subtle but effective. She allows the script to breathe and the characters to shine, while still maintaining a clear sense of pace and movement. The decision to use fluid staging and clever lighting transitions works particularly well, guiding the audience smoothly through changes in mood and setting without the need for elaborate scene changes.

Visually, the production is understated but highly effective. The set, curated by Ellie Wintour, is realistic and well-designed, creating an inviting domestic space that supports the intimacy of the piece. Lighting, designed by Matt Karmios, is used with precision to shift focus and convey emotional beats, while costume and props are thoughtfully chosen to further ground the story in reality.

One of the most impressive aspects ofThanks for Having Meis its ability to create a world that feels so familiar, that the audience could easily imagine the lives of the characters both before and after the events of the play. There is a sense of depth and continuity to the storytelling that speaks to the strength of both the writing and the performances.

In conclusion,Thanks for Having Meis an outstanding production that showcases the talents of everyone involved. It’s a rare piece that manages to be both highly entertaining and emotionally resonant. Whether drawn in by sharp writing, strong performances, or simply a well-told story, this play delivers on all fronts.

Runs until 26 April 2025