The acclaimed West End production The Fifth Step arrives in Cape Town this September for its exclusive South African premiere at The Baxter Studio, offering audiences a darkly funny and emotionally intense exploration of recovery, masculinity, faith and accountability.
Written by David Ireland and directed by award-winning South African theatre-maker Charmaine Weir-Smith, the two-hander stars multi-award-winning actor Albert Pretorius alongside Lyle October. The production runs from 3 to 26 September 2026, with performances from Tuesdays to Saturdays at 20:00 and a Saturday matinee at 15:00.
At the heart of The Fifth Step is James, an experienced member of Alcoholics Anonymous who has maintained his sobriety for years. His life takes an unexpected turn when he agrees to mentor Luka, a volatile newcomer to the programme. What begins as a conventional sponsor-and-sponsee relationship soon develops into a tense psychological battle.
As Luka approaches the programme’s pivotal fifth step – the requirement to make a complete and honest confession of past wrongs to another person – the relationship between the two men becomes increasingly complicated. Secrets, trauma and questions of trust emerge, challenging their understanding of redemption and personal responsibility.
The play first premiered at the Edinburgh International Festival in 2024 before transferring to London’s West End in 2025, where it earned strong critical acclaim for its sharp dialogue, dark humour and emotional depth.
For Cape Town theatre audiences, the production offers the opportunity to experience a contemporary international hit with a distinctly local creative team and two highly regarded South African performers.
The Fifth Step is recommended for audiences aged 16 and older due to mature themes and strong language.
Bookings are open through Webtickets and at Pick n Pay stores, with discounted options available for block bookings, fundraisers and charities.
Pic Credit: Mark Dobson
