Shellshocked at Lowry

Coming to Lowry this autumn, Shellshocked is a thrilling new drama examining the aftershocks of war on the mind of a young soldier.

Written and directed by Leeds-based playwright Philip Stokes, it arrives in Salford following a sold-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe, where it earned a sweep of five-star reviews. Recognised by the British Library as a culturally important playwright of the 21st century, Stokes is known for darkly intelligent work that probes morality, mental strain and human fragility. His award-winning plays have toured from New York to Adelaide, earning critical acclaim for their taut writing and emotional intensity – and, uniquely, he directs every one himself.

Set in the shadow of World War II, Shellshocked follows the young Wesley Hepton, a returning war hero whose homecoming brings little peace. With his father gone and the burden of supporting his mother and sisters weighing heavy, Wesley’s mother submits his art portfolio to the enigmatic painter Mr Lupine, hoping to secure him an apprenticeship. But when Wesley visits the artist’s studio, he discovers the ulterior motives behind the artist’s palette, and a madness that could save or destroy a soldier’s shellshocked mind.

Starring Jack Stokes, Winner of the Adelaide Critics Circle Award 2023, and Lee Bainbridge, previously in the five-star rated Heroin(e) For Breakfast, the play comes from the creative team behind the five-star hit show Jesus, Jane, Mother & Me and Edinburgh Fringe 2023 sell-out show LASH. Presented by Richard Jordan Productions, King Brilliant Theatre, 412, Lawrence Batley Theatre and Harrogate Theatre, it promises a gripping, emotionally charged night of new writing at its most precise and provocative.