Riverside Studios Autumn Programme Includes Theatre, Comedy and Cabaret


Season culminates with stage version of Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

A new immersive stage adaptation of Douglas Adams’ sci-fi comedy coming to Hammersmith
A new immersive stage adaptation of Douglas Adams’ sci-fi comedy coming to Hammersmith

August 26, 2025

Riverside Studios in Hammersmith has announced its September to December programme, offering a wide-ranging mix of theatre, comedy and cabaret. The season includes new writing, adaptations, immersive storytelling and returning favourites.

The comedy night Live Next to the Apollo continues its weekly run, marking two years at Riverside with a special anniversary show on 26 September. Founded by TV producer Jonathan Stadlen, the event features emerging and established comedians, with Tuesday nights showcasing up to six performers and Fridays offering headline acts. The programme includes appearances by Laura Smyth, Marcus Brigstocke, Esther Manito, Tom Ward and Paul Tonkinson.

Theatre highlights begin with A Manchester Anthem, running until 13 September. The play follows Tommy, a young Mancunian preparing to leave for university at Oxford, and explores themes of identity and transition during a final night out in his hometown.

Interview, which runs until 27 September, is a psychological drama starring Robert Sean Leonard and Paten Hughes. Adapted from the screenplay by Theodor Holman and the 2003 film by Theo van Gogh, the production examines power dynamics, media distrust and influencer culture through a tense encounter between a journalist and a movie star.

From 3 to 7 September, Are We Doing This Right? returns to Riverside following a successful preview run. The play centres on two friends navigating adulthood and creative uncertainty, offering a humorous and emotionally grounded look at life in one’s twenties.

Shotgunned, running from 12 to 28 September, is the debut production from Kangaroo Court. Written and directed by Matt Anderson, the play explores the breakdown of a relationship and the emotional aftermath, blending humour and heartbreak.

Brown Girl Noise returns for a two-week run from 16 to 28 September. Created and performed by South Asian women, the show combines skits, spoken word and storytelling to explore identity, belonging and resistance.

From 30 September to 26 October, Blessings presents a family drama set in 1960s England. The play follows the Deacon family as long-held secrets begin to surface during an Easter gathering. The cast includes Gary Webster, Jane Slavin, Emily Lane, Hannah Traylen and Milly Roberts.

Da Vinci’s Laundry, running from 6 to 25 October, is a satirical comedy set in the high-end art world. Written by Keelan Kember and featuring Arsema Thomas, Steve Zissis, Fayez Bakhsh and Velibor Topic, the production explores themes of money laundering, romance and the commodification of art.

Da Vinci’s Laundry is a satirical comedy set in the high-end art world
Da Vinci’s Laundry is a satirical comedy set in the high-end art world

From 29 October to 2 November, Surinderella offers a modern twist on the classic fairytale. Written by Pravesh Kumar and produced by Rifco Theatre, the show blends Bollywood flair with comedy and social commentary, following Surinder as she navigates family pressures and unexpected romance.

The season’s flagship production is The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, which opens on 15 November and runs until 15 February. This new stage adaptation of Douglas Adams’ sci-fi comedy invites audiences to join Arthur Dent and others on a cosmic journey in search of life’s meaning. The production combines immersive theatre, music, dance and visual effects.

Speaking about the programme, Riverside Studios’ Head of Programming Rhys Williamson said the season reflects the venue’s mission to showcase emerging talent alongside established names. He described the line-up as a celebration of creativity and community, offering audiences a varied and engaging experience.

Tickets and further details are available via the Riverside Studios website.

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