Aimee Lou Wood and Ben Whishaw to star in one-night-only reading of Dennis Kelly's Debris

Exclusive: Ben Whishaw and Aimee Lou Wood will star in a one-night-only script-in-hand reading of Debris, the first play by Dennis Kelly.

The performance is part of a fundraising event hosted by Theatre503, and will take place on 4 March 2026 at The Cinema at Battersea Power Station. It will support Theatre503’s work as the UK’s only theatre dedicated solely to debut playwrights.

The reading is presented in partnership with the Cinema at Battersea Power Station and marks more than two decades since Debris premiered at Theatre503, introducing Kelly as a playwright. Whishaw and Wood will perform the roles of Michael and Michelle in the play.

The evening will also include a Q&A with the cast and invited guests, focusing on the role of new writing in theatre and the significance of debut plays.

Anthony Simpson-Pike, artistic director and co-CEO of Theatre503, and Emily Carewe, executive director and co-CEO, said today: “Theatre503 is a launchpad for the UK’s most exciting writing talent – a place where bold new voices begin.

“We’re proud to return to Dennis Kelly’s Debris for this special event celebrating the power of a debut play, and thrilled to welcome the brilliant Ben and Aimee. This event is both a celebration of our past and a rallying cry for what comes next – a future made possible by vital support from those who believe in our small but mighty theatre.”

Priority booking opens to friends and patrons of Theatre503 at 10am on 4 February, with general booking opening at 10am on 11 February. Membership also offers access to a post-show drinks reception. All proceeds from the event will go towards Theatre503’s work with emerging playwrights.