Theatre News

John Simm to star in new Blackbird revival

The award-winning play returns

Alex Wood

Alex Wood

| Bath |

6 November 2025

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John Simm, © Dan Wooller

John Simm (Grace, Doctor Who) will star in a new production of David Harrower’s Blackbird, directed by Matthew Dunster, at the Ustinov Studio from 4 February to 6 March 2027.

The play follows Una and Ray, who shared a relationship years earlier. After decades apart, Una tracks Ray down, confronting him at the factory where he now works under a new identity. Their reunion reopens old wounds and forces both to face the consequences of their past.

Blackbird premiered at the Edinburgh International Festival in 2005 before transferring to the West End, where it won the 2007 Olivier Award for Best New Play.

Dunster’s recent work includes Hedda, starring Lily Allen, at the Ustinov and The Hunger Games: On Stage, currently in previews in Canary Wharf.

Further cast and creative team are to be revealed.

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