Everything you need to know about Affluenza

As a Stranger Things cast member prepares to make their London stage debut, here’s all the information you need

Andy Sandberg has premiered his new play at Riverside Studios, with a familiar face in the starring role. A gripping drama about power, privilege and accountability, Affluenza is set to be one of the most talked-about pieces of theatre this season. Thinking about getting involved in the conversation? Here’s everything you should know.

Who’s starring in Affluenza in London?

Noah Schapp, best known for his role as Will Byers in Stranger Things, makes his London stage debut in the new play.

Schnapp said, “I am so excited to make my stage debut in London with Affluenza. I started talking with Andy Sandberg a few months ago about finding the right opportunity to work together, and it’s thrilling to now be bringing this play to life in London. I wanted to be very intentional about what I took on next, and as I spend more time with this excellent script, I feel so connected to the characters. Without giving away too much, I get to play two very different roles, and it’s a story that’s really going to leave audiences talking and thinking.”

In a strange coincidence, Schnapp made his stage debut on the same day that fellow Stranger Things star Gaten Matarazzo began performances in Rent.

When is Affluenza playing in London?

Affluenza will play in London from 26 September until 21 November.

Which theatre will it play at?

The new play is debuting at Riverside Studios, on the north bank of the Thames in Hammersmith.

What is Affluenza about?

Set in the ultra-wealthy world of the Hamptons, Affluenza charts the fallout after a teenager’s drunken car ride ends in devastation. The verdict will come down to one question: is it really possible to be too privileged to know the difference between right and wrong? The show is inspired by true events surrounding a shocking real-life legal defence, exploring the ripple effects of extreme affluence.

Who else is in the cast?

Starring alongside Schnapp are Strictly Come Dancing star Janette Manrara, Juliet Cowan (Broken Glass), Wallis Currie-Wood (Madam Secretary, Elektra), and Olivier Award nominee Rupert Young (Bridgerton, Dear Evan Hansen).

Who’s directing Affluenza?

Affluenza features direction from Mainstage Season Artistic Director Andy Sandberg. Sandberg is also the show’s writer.

Who else is on the creative team?

The show also includes set designer from Charlie Corcoran, costume design from Hannah Schmidt, lighting design from Jack Weir, and sound design from Emily Drohan.

Why should I see it?

Affluenza is a powerful new drama with a highly talented cast that raises important, thought-provoking questions about moral accountability, family legacy and the American justice system. As conversations around the cost and general impact of privilege continue to flood the zeitgeist, the show adds interesting colour to those conversations, and digs into who’s really accountable. This is one you definitely won’t want to miss.

Affluenza is currently playing at Riverside Studios until 21 November – find your tickets here