Billy Porter to make director debut in new London production THIS BITTER EARTH

This Bitter Earth is a major new London production that will open at the Soho Theatre this summer.

The story follows Jesse and Neil whose first encounter takes place at the Million Hoodie March in 2012. Just seven weeks later, they're dating and now are navigating the firsts of their relationship against a backdrop of political demonstrations and discord. Written by Harrison David Rivers, this London premiere offers audiences an intimate, romantic and gripping story about a young black writer and his white activist lover.

It will star Omari Douglas (It's A Sin, Channel 4) as Jesse and Alexander Lincoln (Emmerdale, ITV) as Neil. They will be joined by Stanton Plummer-Cambridge (F**cking Men, Waterloo East) and Luke Striggler (Hairspray, UK Tour) as understudies.

Directed by Billy Porter, the creative team includes set and costume design by Morgan Large, original composition by Sean Green, sound design by Julian Starr, casting by Rob Kelly, production management by Toby Darvill, with Elsie O’Rourke as Company Stage Manager, Jordan Deegan-Fleet as Deputy Stage Manager.

This Bitter Earth is at Soho Theatre from 18 June - 26 July 2025.