Meera Syal to star in 'The Children' at Lyric Hammersmith Theatre

The Children follows two retired nuclear scientists, Hazel and Robin, who live in a remote British coastal cottage on the edge of a radiation exclusion zone.

Meera Syal will star in a new production of Lucy Kirkwood’s The Children at Lyric Hammersmith Theatre. Performances will run from 2 September to 3 October at the London venue.

Directed by Artistic Director Rachel O’Riordan, The Children follows two retired nuclear scientists, Hazel and Robin, who live in a remote British coastal cottage on the edge of a radiation exclusion zone. When their old friend Rose arrives with a proposition, it tests the limits of their loyalty and how far they'll go for the next generation.

Olivier Award nominee Dame Meera Syal (A Tupperware of Ashes, Noises Off) will star as Hazel.

O’Riordan said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be bringing Luck Kirkwood’s thrilling play to the Lyric this September in its 10th anniversary production. Since its debut in 2016, it has become a modern classic and the themes of inter-generational accountability and environmental crisis have only become more relevant. It’s funny, moving and asks big questions around personal morality- what would any of us do if we were asked to do something so terrifying?

"It’s also a joy to welcome Meera Syal back to the Lyric stage for the first time since 2019’s smash-hit Noises Off. I cannot wait for audiences to experience this bold, thrilling story anew in 2026.”

Syal added: “I’m thrilled to be back at the Lyric Hammersmith and working with Rachel O'Riordan on Lucy Kirkwood’s brilliant, timely play.”

The creative team includes Set & Costume Design by Gary McCann, Lighting Design by Anna Watson and Sound Design by Holly Khan.

Full cast and creatives are yet to be announced.

Check back for The Children tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk

Photo credit: The Children artwork. (Courtesy of production)