The Fifth Step promotional artwork: a photograph of Martin Freeman and Jack Lowden. Behind them are scattered fold up chairs and two paper cups on the floor. Text reads: 'National Theatre Live. Jack Lowden. Martin Freeman. Written by David Ireland. Directed by Finn Den Hertog'.

NT Live – The Fifth Step

by David Ireland, directed by Finn den Hertog

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Filmed in front of a live audience, NT Live screenings give you the best seat in the house to see National Theatre productions from your favourite local venue. Each production is captured with several cameras, giving you emotional close-ups as well as dramatic full-stage shots, for an extraordinary theatre experience.

Olivier Award-winner Jack Lowden (Slow Horses, Dunkirk) is joined by Emmy and BAFTA-winner Martin Freeman (The Hobbit, The Responder) in the critically acclaimed and subversively funny new play by David Ireland.

After years in the 12-step programme of Alcoholics Anonymous, James becomes a sponsor to newcomer Luka. The pair bond over black coffee, trade stories and build a fragile friendship out of their shared experiences. But as Luka approaches step five – the moment of confession – dangerous truths emerge, threatening the trust on which both of their recoveries depend.

Finn den Hertog directs the provocative and entertaining production filmed live from @sohoplace on London’s West End.

Age 15+

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