The UK premiere of Sean Daniels’ critically acclaimed play The White Chip is set to open at Southwark Playhouse Borough this summer, with performances running from 9 July to 16 August 2025. Press night is scheduled for Friday 11 July at 7pm.
Produced by Danielle Tarento (Titanic) and Tony Award-winning actress Annaleigh Ashford, the production marks the first London outing for Daniels’ autobiographical comedy about addiction and recovery. The show made its debut at 59E59 Theaters in New York and later transferred to MCC Theater, receiving widespread praise and a New York Times Critics’ Pick.
Ed Coleman (I Am Hannah, 28 Weeks Later) stars as Steven McAlister, a successful theatre director whose carefully managed double life begins to unravel under the weight of alcoholism. Despite professional acclaim and personal milestones, Steven’s reliance on alcohol threatens everything he has built—until a white chip from an AA meeting prompts a reckoning.
Joining Coleman are Mara Allen (Macbeth, Shakespeare’s Globe; King Lear, West End/Broadway) and Ashlee Irish (Hello, Dolly!, London Palladium; Dreamgirls, Savoy Theatre), playing multiple roles that guide, challenge, and reflect Steven’s journey.
Directed by Matt Ryan, the creative team includes designer Lee Newby, lighting by Jamie Platt, sound by Max Pappenheim, and casting by Danielle Tarento.
Playwright Sean Daniels said,
“After the overwhelming response in New York—where audiences laughed and, more importantly, many found the courage to seek help—it’s an honour to bring The White Chip to London. This play is about survival, and I’m lucky to work with people who understand its humour and heart.”
Listings Info:
The White Chip
By Sean Daniels
Directed by Matt Ryan
Southwark Playhouse Borough, 77-85 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BD
9 July – 16 August 2025 | Press Night: 11 July, 7pm
Tickets from £12–£32 | Book here
Evening shows: 7pm | Matinees: Tue & Sat at 2:30pm
Captioned performance: 6 August
Age guidance: 11+
Follow the journey on socials and at southwarkplayhouse.co.uk.
