I’ll be back at London’s Park Theatre for the premiere of ANIMAL, based on a real-life story of someone I know personally and admire immensely, Josh Hepple. This one is really special to me.

Needs must. Needs lust.

Meet David – gay, disabled and profoundly horny. He can’t eat, drink or shower by himself – let alone the rest. Totally inexperienced, he embarks on a sexual and romantic odyssey, armed with a fierce brain and impressive nudes (that he has to get someone else to take). But can David keep it casual whilst also relying on round-the-clock care? Can he manage the thrill and uncertainty of random hook-ups after a lifetime of knockbacks?

Hilarious, challenging and heart-breaking, ANIMAL won the inaugural Through The Mill Prize (Hope Mill Theatre supported by Jonathan Harvey) and was shortlisted in the top five for the Papatango Prize out of more than 1,500 entries.

It’s written by Jon Bradfield from a story by Jon Bradfield and Josh Hepple, directed by Bronagh Lagan, and stars Christopher John-Slater as David. It’s co-produced by the Park Theatre and Manchester’s renowned Hope Mill Theatre.

Jon Bradfield co-wrote Above The Stag Theatre’s acclaimed series of queer adult pantomimes, most recently Dick Whittington – A New Dick in Town (★★★★ The Guardian, ★★★★★ The Stage), and he wrote Missing Alice for the BBC and Old Vic.

Josh Hepple is an activist with severe cerebral palsy. He has a Master’s degree in law and teaches at various universities. He has been a theatre reviewer, and is an equality trainer and a writer-journalist at The Guardian and Huffington Post.

Everyone is welcome at any performance: it will be an environment in which people can freely express themselves and experience the show according to their needs.

Following the 7.30pm performance of ANIMAL on Monday 24 April 2023, I’ll talk to Jon Bradfield, Josh Hepple and the company. Any questions? Join us!