The play, which transferred from London’s Bush Theatre with Heather Agyepong and Tosin Cole reprising their roles, will run for nine weeks until October 12 at the Duke of York’s Theatre in London. Playwright Benedict Lombe became the third black British woman to have a production in the West End after the opening night on Wednesday. The Luther actor is co-producing the play, alongside Love Island host Maya Jama and Mercury Prize and Brit-winning rapper Little Simz.
Elba told the PA news agency: “Talent is talent – black, white or indifferent, and it’s really good to just get people into the theatre and see new writing works like this in a way that actually can be relatable. “All love stories are sort of subjective, but with this one, I think there’s an attempt to make it as welcoming to different types of people.” Elba said his hope is that young people come to the theatre as it marked an “amazing experience” for him.
“You can’t look at your phone. You’ve got to pay attention, and you’re going to see some beautiful writing and see some beautiful acting,” he said. “I just love theatre.
My career started in theatre. I think it’s important that young audiences get to the theatre. “But this play, I connected to the writing, the writing’s incredible.
“I love Heather and I love Tosin, they’re amazing actors. Lynette (Linton) is a great director.” Elba added that he felt “really proud” to be a part of the play.
The production is billed.