REVIEW: Night City by Max Wilkinson at Southwark Playhouse 10 September – 3 October 2026

‘a well-crafted new play, driven by packed dialogue, clear direction and a versatile cast.’ ★★★ ½

Based on the writer’s own experiences, the play follows three workers attempting to survive London’s gig economy: a hedonistic taxi driver, an aspiring actress working as a waitress, and a compassionate carer whose fatal mistake sends all three lives spiralling into chaos. As their stories collide, the play expands into a tale of corruption, political conspiracy and the precarious lives of those who keep the city running without ever being granted real security within it.

The set design allows the space to utilize imagination with chains and led lights, and the video projections add to the restless atmosphere of the city. The production finds its rhythm from the outset, with its high physical energy and high-octane performances. The actors shift rapidly between comedy, desperation and confrontation.

The difficulty is that, despite this exciting dynamic, the production does not feel like it travels very far. The same heightened rhythm established at the beginning continues almost until the end. The pace initially creates excitement, but without sufficient variation it gradually becomes repetitive, leaving little room for silence, tension or genuine surprise.

There is plenty happening in Night City, both narratively and visually, but its relentless momentum ultimately works against it. This is an energetic and skilfully executed production that vividly captures the pressures of precarious urban life.

https://southwarkplayhouse.co.uk/productions/night-city/

Photography by Lidia Crisafulli

The Company

Jack Ambrose

Helena Pipe

Bex Smith

Creatives

Max Wilkinson

Writer

Ebenezer Bamgboye

Director

Olivia Jamieson

Set and Costume Designer

Arnim Friess

Lighting and Video Designer

David Lewington

Sound Designer

Rose Ryan

Movement Director

Fran Cattaneo

Casting Director

Emma Langan

Production Management

Venus Raven

Stage Manager

Clarisse Makundul

Producer