Maia Novi's semi-autobiographical play, centred on a youth psychiatric hospital, makes its way to London this September following its critically acclaimed Off-Broadway run at The Vineyard's Dimson Theatre in 2024.
The company of Invasive Species. Photo by Danny Kaan
Invasive Species will make its UK premiere at the King's Head Theatre this autumn, directed by Pulitzer Prize finalist Michael Breslin.
Maia Novi will reprise her lead role in the play alongside Netflix star Harrison Osterfield, Ella Blackburn (The Thing, White Bear Theatre), Max Percy (Peter Pan, Regent's Park Open Air Theatre), and Kalifa Taylor (A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story, Birmingham Rep).
Invasive Spaces is based on Novi's own experiences in a youth psychiatric ward. Billed as a darkly comic and moving play, it garnered attention for touching on poignant issues of immigration, identity politics, and mental health. It follows a young immigrant drama student who suffers a psychotic breakdown and is institutionalised, where she continues to pursue her dreams of being a Hollywood star while adapting to her new circumstances and befriending her fellow inmates.
Invasive Spaces will play at King's Head Theatre from 3 September to 3 October 2026.
