Speech and Debate
  • London Fringe

'A triumph...hilarious, clich�-free, and immensely entertaining...' New York Times

Defibrillator presents the UK Premiere of this fiercely funny play by Tony award winning playwright Stephen Karam.

They may go to the same high school, but misfits Solomon, Diwata and Howie have never met and their peers just don't take them seriously&. until a sex scandal involving one of their teachers brings them together.

By creating a Speech and Debate team they finally have a chance to be heard, but will they be able to get their interpretive dance version of The Crucible ready in time for the big day?!

A hilarious play that grapples with serious modern social issues - homophobia, teenage alienation and the limits of online privacy - directed by Tom Attenborough.

Variety says it's 'bristling with vitality, wicked humour, terrific dialogue and a direct pipeline into the zeitgeist of contemporary youth.'

From the writer of the wildly successful The Humans, this New York Times Critics pick is the first play from Pulitzer Prize finalist, Stephen Karam, to be staged in the UK.

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now

Performances

Location

Most Popular See More

Matilda the Musical

From £24.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Frozen the Musical

From £36.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Wicked

From £25.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Tina - The Tina Turner Musical

From £12.00

More Info

Find Tickets

Back to the Future - The Musical

From £24.00

More Info

Find Tickets

The Mousetrap

From £30.00

More Info

Find Tickets