Writer-director Philippa Lawford’s debut play Ikaria is set to tour the UK this autumn, after a critically acclaimed London run in 2022.
Strikingly moving, Ikaria is an illustration of how we can find salvation in someone else.After taking a year out, Simon (James Wilbraham) has returned to university, determined to get on with his finals and not slip back into old, destructive habits. Mia (Andrea Gatchalian), a first-year, is embracing the explosive freedom of life away from home. While seemingly from different worlds, the two easily slide into a relationship, spending every night together in Simon’s messy dorm room, staying up later and later, not going out, and skipping tutorials. Mia is initially happy to sink into Simon’s nocturnal habit of living, until she begins to question whether this makes her happy – and whether it makes Simon happy as well.
Ikaria is a heartfelt look at the gritty reality of loving and caring for somebody who cannot love and care for themselves. Swept up in a dizzying romance, Simon and Mia find solace from the pressures of the outside world in Simon’s bedroom, a space which begins to reflect the growing unrest infiltrating their relationship. Set against the backdrop of university, as young adults begin to question their place in the world, Ikaria presents a nuanced look at mental health and the coexistence of love and self-destruction.
The show received a runner-up award for the 2022 ATG/Platform Presents Playwrights’ Prize, an OFFIE Short Run Commendation and came in at number two of Broadway World’s ‘Best Theatre of 2022’ List.
Philippa comments, I was 24 when I wrote Ikaria - three years after leaving uni. I’ve tried to be as accurate as possible about what it felt like to be a student - how exciting and romantic it felt, and also the dizzying fear of feeling like an adult for the first time, fully able to make all your own mistakes. It’s been wonderful working with such talented actors and with my fantastic associate director Izzy Parriss as we’ve built the detailed world of the play inside Simon’s bedroom.
The show will begin its tour in York before visiting Mold, Guildford, Belfast, Whitley Bay, and London.
Previous Praise for Ikaria
★★★★★ Theatrical gold… a hugely promising debut, Broadway World
★★★★ A well-crafted rollercoaster of love, depression and self-destruction, One Show More
★★★★ Brilliant, pointed writing, Always Time for Theatre
★★★★ A powerful, poignant, and important piece of work, The Peg
★★★★ Quietly devastating, The Reviews Hub
Hotels near Laurels, Whitley Bay
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Wondering where to stay that's close to Laurels, Whitley Bay? We've teamed up with Booking.com to provide the best room rates for hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs near the Antics event in Newcastle.
Esplanade Lodge
Esplanade Lodge is set in the heart of Whitley Bay, a 2-minute walk from Whitley Bays sea front. It offers free WiFi in the rooms and free parking..
The Chedburgh
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The Metropolitan
Just 150 metres from Whitley Bays sandy beaches, this 4-star bed and breakfast offers stylish contemporary accommodation. Located on a quiet street, The Metropolitan is less than 5 minutes walk from the lively town centre and metro rail station..
Oaktree Lodge
Quietly situated just 15 minutes walk from the town centre of Whitley Bay, the 4-star Oaktree Lodge offers free Wi-Fi and free onsite parking..
The Windsor Hotel
The largest and most impressive hotel in Whitley Bay, centrally located on South Parade, the Windsor is situated within sight of the sea on the scenic Northumbrian coast..
Seacrest Hotel
In the heart of Whitley Bay, the Seacrest Hotel offers family-run bed and breakfast accommodation a 2-minute walk from the beach. It has a fully licensed restaurant and well-stocked bar..
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VenueLaurels, Whitley Bay
Address212 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear,
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