London’s Seven Dials Playhouse has announced its fascinating new spring season, Extraordinary Stories, which will run from February 3 – March 29, 2026.
Putting the spotlight on the vast, complicated and often surprising narratives that shape our lives, Extraordinary Stories shines a light on the remarkable experiences that are hidden in every day life. Theatre lovers can expects stories from drug-trial confessions to queer history, dementia’s shifting realities to the fervour of fandom, and more.
Seven Dials Playhouse’s main space, The House, will host three striking new productions, each offering a sharply different window into contemporary life, with a fourth show still to be announced.
The House listings
Brainsluts: February 3-13
Set over five Sundays, Brainsluts – a slang term used for participants of clinical drug testing – is a comedy play from Dan Bishop which follows five strangers in the midst of a trial. As the trial unfolds, these guinea pigs discover the sheer lengths each of them will go just to fill the silence. Oversharing ensues, secrets emerge and the stresses of their precarious lives are laid bare.
The Night Larry Kramer Kissed Me: February 17 – March 1
Funny, furious and heartbreakingly tender, The Night Larry Kramer Kissed Me charts one man’s personal journey through self-discovery, desire, loss and activism. With a kaleidoscope of characters and vivid vignettes, the play captures the passion and urgency of the 1980s AIDS crisis, inspired by the indomitable spirit of playwright and activist Larry Kramer. Originally written in 1994 by David Drake, this groundbreaking solo piece comes roaring back to the stage, directed by Adam Zane and starring Gabriel Clark.
The Murmuration of Starlings: March 3-14
A love story set against a background of dementia, The Murmuration of Starlings places audiences inside the fragmented world of a man living with a mind in decline. Blurring reality with sci-fi, memory with myth, the piece traces a looping journey beginning just 150 yards from home. As The Man, The Woman, The Boy and The Girl move through shifting timelines, lurking dangers and moments of unexpected solace, the play explores how far someone will go to protect the person they love, even as their own understanding of reality unravels.
Alongside the main House programme, The Pen offers a trio of shorter runs showcasing bold new comedic voices, as well as a monthly improv showcase.
The Pen listings
Olivia McLeod – Work in Progress: February 5
For too long, Olivia has not been recognised as the genius she knows she is. Now, she’s seeking vengeance on anyone who’s ever stood in her way.
Hudson Hughes: At Your Service: February 6
A comedy-horror centred on a TV celebrity bishop forced to preside over a rural funeral for a woman rumoured to be a witch. Featuring a full coffin on stage and Hudson Hughes’ signature blend of electronic props, video trickery and sharply timed scares.
A Stan is Born: February 10-12
This debut from Alexis Sakellaris is a musical comedy about obsession, pop divas and the queer joy of becoming a ‘stan’. Following a drastic move from New York City to rural Germany at the age of eight and trapped in a conservative culture clash, discovering women online became Alexis’s salvation. Céline, Whitney, Mariah, Beyoncé, Aretha…this show is a heartfelt tribute to them, and to the women in Alexis’s real life.
Peakaboo: January 30, February 27, March 27, and April 24
Peekaboo is a monthly showcase of the best and most exciting improv comedy happening in London, in the heart of the West End. For just £10, this is a chance to see established improvisers alongside up-and-comers in a lively and playful night, hosted by improv veteran and leapday founder David Elms.
This season continues Seven Dials Playhouse’s commitment to curated, artist-led programming that elevates bold new work and gives it the time, space and support to grow. The venue’s spring programme reflects an ongoing mission to champion distinctive voices and compelling contemporary storytelling.
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