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Olivier Award-winner Jack Lowden (Slow Horses, Dunkirk) is joined by Emmy and BAFTA-winner Martin Freeman (The Hobbit, The Responder) in the critically acclaimed and subversively funny new play by David Ireland – filmed at Soho Place and screened at The Wardrobe Theatre as part of National Theatre Live


National Theatre Live brings the best of British theatre to our screens. Whether you show up for serious drama, romcoms or sold-out award-winning hits, we bring you recordings of unmissable theatre, filmed from Britain’s most exciting stages.

After years in the 12-step programme of Alcoholics Anonymous, James becomes a sponsor to newcomer Luka. The pair bond over black coffee, trade stories and build a fragile friendship out of their shared experiences. But as Luka approaches step five – the moment of confession – dangerous truths emerge, threatening the trust on which both of their recoveries depend.

Finn den Hertog directs the provocative and entertaining production filmed live from @sohoplace on London’s West End.

“Raw, excruciating and often alarmingly funny.”
★★★★★ Daily Mail

“Two actors at the top of their game.”
★★★★ Evening Standard

“Hilarious two-hander.”
★★★★ Guardian

  • Dates: Tues 17th Feb 2026
  • Show time: 7pm
  • Tickets: £15 (£12 conc.)
  • Running Time: 90 mins (no interval)
  • Suitable for: Rated 15
  • Film
  • Connect with the artist:

The Fifth Step
The Fifth Step
  • Running Time: 90 mins (no interval)
  • Suitable for: Rated 15
  • Connect with the artist:

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