If the thought of live theatre thrills you, then Tim Crouch’s An Oak Tree will completely hypnotize you. Returning to the Young Vic this May, this groundbreaking theatrical masterpiece celebrates its 20th anniversary in a truly unpredictable fashion. With a different guest artist stepping into the unknown each night, the play offers a one-of-a-kind experience every time the curtain rises.
Why An Oak Tree is a Must-See in Shoreditch’s Theatrical Calendar
Tim Crouch’s An Oak Tree isn’t just a play; it’s an event. This production pioneered the concept of the “theatrical cold-read,” where each guest artist performs without having seen or rehearsed the script. The result? Unfiltered, raw, and electric moments that epitomize what live theatre is all about. Over 350 artists, including stars like Frances McDormand, Sophie Okonedo, and Peter Dinklage, have taken part since its 2005 debut.
This May, the experiment continues at the Young Vic with a stellar lineup of guest artists, including Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù (Gangs of London), Michelle Terry (Tribes), Luke Thompson (Bridgerton), Russell Tovey (American Horror Story: NYC), and Indira Varma (Game of Thrones). The full lineup? Still under wraps. But the magic lies in the surprise, as the guest artist is revealed live each night.
Tim Crouch’s Vision: Twenty Years of Innovation
In 2005, Crouch created An Oak Tree as an experiment, and two decades later, the lab is still buzzing. “Each time, the same conditions. Each time, a different result,” Crouch shares, highlighting the play’s ever-evolving nature. What began as a small production above a pub in South London has toured the world—from Russia to New York, Asia, and beyond.
This year, the Young Vic becomes the latest stage for this celebrated theatrical experiment. Known for championing innovative and daring productions, the Young Vic provides the perfect setting for a play that defies convention.
What’s the Play About? (Spoiler-Free, of Course)
A father loses his daughter in a tragic car accident. The driver responsible? A stage hypnotist. When the two meet for the first time during the hypnotist’s act, a profound and absurdly comic story unfolds. This isn’t just a play; it’s an intimate exploration of loss, suggestion, and the sheer power of the mind.
Crouch himself stars alongside each guest artist, who takes on their role without preparation. The spontaneity keeps audiences at the edge of their seats, making each performance a once-in-a-lifetime event.
Francesca Moody Productions: A Legacy of Excellence
Presented by Francesca Moody Productions, the Olivier Award-winning team behind Fleabag and Baby Reindeer, this production is in good hands. Known for championing bold, boundary-pushing theatre, Francesca Moody Productions continues to bring exceptional storytelling to stages worldwide.
Their collaboration with the Young Vic for An Oak Tree underscores their commitment to fostering creativity and innovation. This production is just one part of their stellar lineup, which includes upcoming hits like Weather Girl at Soho Theatre and How to Win Against History at the Bristol Old Vic.
Celebrating Twenty Years of Bold Theatre
As the Young Vic prepares to unveil its 2025/26 season under new Artistic Director Nadia Fall, An Oak Tree stands as a testament to the theatre’s legacy of innovation. Tim Crouch’s experiment in spontaneity and connection continues to push boundaries, proving that live theatre remains as vibrant and vital as ever.
So, Shoreditch creatives and culture vultures, mark your calendars. An Oak Tree is waiting to mesmerize, surprise, and, perhaps, hypnotize you.
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