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An epic, life-spanning tale of friendship, music, and the moments that change you forever.

The Ballad of Hattie and James

‘Sophie Thompson and Charles Edwards deliver wonderful performances in a story of musical prodigies with ‘One Day’ vibes’ The Independent
‘Richard Twyman's assured production doesn’t stint on showing the pain of the betrayal at the heart of the story, but also doesn’t neglect the beauty of the music. ’ Time Out
‘Sophie Thompson and Charles Edwards are spellbinding as two musical prodigies in this recalling of Sondheim’s Merrily We Roll Along’ The Telegraph
‘It is indeed thrilling to be immersed in the music of Hattie and James’ world: exacting, brilliant and at times devastating.’ London Theatre 1
‘Thompson bowls about the stage with her trademark barmy charm, while Edwards keeps James somehow loveable, even while exploring decidedly unloveable traits.’ WhatsOnStage
‘Shrewdly directed by Richard Twyman, this harmonious history of love, life and loss is a must-see.’ The Arts Dispatch
‘The performances elicited by director Richard Twyman are witty and expert.’ The Guardian
‘The witty, acerbic and often moving dialogue cleverly captures the naturalistic banter between two people who have known each other for eons.’ Theatre Weekly
‘An engrossing and unusual drama.’ The Reviews Hub
‘Special praise must also go to Suzette Llewellyn, who multi-roles a range of different characters throughout. Each personality was distinctive, and despite such a mammoth task, she excelled.’ Theatre South East
‘Twyman ensures that the central bond of music between the pair is right at the centre of the story -even when tragedy draws them apart. By making the music such a strong part of telling the story it enhances the emotional core of the story beautifully.’ Love London Love Culture

A world premier, written by Samuel Adamson and directed by Richard Twyman

At St Pancras International, a woman sits at the piano and begins to play. The music captivates commuters, tourists and, following a viral clip, millions people around the world. Behind the music is the incredible story of a lifelong duet – the ballad of Hattie and James.

Throughout their lives, Hattie and James find themselves inextricably linked with one another, for better or worse, and cannot help but replay the experiences that have shaped them.

An impassioned story from Samuel Adamson (Wife) that asks who gets to have their voice heard, and can you ever settle the score?

A Kiln Theatre and ETT co-production.

ETT supports the Anti-Racism Touring Rider which you can read about here.

Tickets

Kiln Theatre

11 Apr - 18 May 2024

Rehearsal Gallery

Creative Team

Writer

Samuel Adamson

Director

Richard Twyman

Designer

Jon Bausor

Lighting Designer

Simisola Majekodunmi

Sound Designer

Pete Malkin

Composers

Nicola T. Chang & David Shrubsole

Musical Director

David Shrubsole

Casting Director

Lottie Hines

Movement Director

Anjali Mehra

Costume Supervisor

Isobel Pellow

Assistant Director

Zoë Templeman-Young

Cast

Hattie

Sophie Thompson

James

Charles Edwards

Bo, Mrs Arbuthnot, Rosamund, Louise, Eve and Madame Schultz

Suzette Llewellyn