The Arcola Theatre will host the world premiere of Clive, a new play by Olivier and BAFTA award-winning writer Michael Wynne, from 30 July to 23 August. Directed by Lucy Bailey, the production stars two-time Olivier Award nominee Paul Keating in the title role.
Explores themes of emotional isolation, technological over-reliance and the human need for meaningful connection
Clive centres on Thomas, a man who relishes the solitude of working from home. His days are shaped by routines and conversations with Clive - a very large cactus. As the boundaries between work and personal life begin to collapse, Thomas’s grip on reality falters and his dependence on the spiky houseplant deepens.
Described as both funny and moving, Clive examines the contradictions of hyper-connected modern life. It explores themes of emotional isolation, technological over-reliance and the human need for meaningful connection.
Paul Keating reunites with director Lucy Bailey at the Arcola Theatre following their critically acclaimed collaboration on Kenny Morgan. Keating’s extensive theatre career includes two Olivier nominations and numerous West End appearances. His role in Clive follows a recent turn in Bailey’s UK touring production of Murder on the Orient Express.
Lucy Bailey’s previous directing credits include Witness for the Prosecution, Titus Andronicus at Shakespeare’s Globe and Baby Doll at the National Theatre. Her work has attracted large audiences both in the UK and internationally.
Michael Wynne’s credits include The Priory at the Royal Court Theatre, which won the Olivier Award for Best Comedy. His work in television and film includes Lapland, Sugar Rush and My Summer of Love, which won the BAFTA for Best British Film.
Clive runs from 30 July to 23 August at the Arcola Theatre, London. Booking information is available through the venue’s official website.
