Mother Russia

‘All these years, I knew: if I could just join the KGB, I wouldn't have to figure out who I was. Because they would tell me!’

1992, St Petersburg. From the ashes of communism, the phoenix of capitalism is rising - bringing with it Filet-o-Fish, Latvian condoms, and a dizzying choice of toothpastes. Old friends Evgeny and Dmitri are young men at the dawn of a new era, determined to secure their futures in this unfamiliar world.

Espionage and racketeering promise the biggest pay cheques, so the lads roll up the sleeves of their new designer shirts and get to work. Their first surveillance target is Katya, a fiery young woman who has lived in the West and acquired a complex history of her own. Evgeny immediately falls for her - but how do you confess your feelings to someone who doesn't know you are listening to their every word…?

Will the newly free market deliver the personal freedoms it promises? Multi award-winning writerLauren Yee's acerbic comedy receives its UK premiere following a smash-hit run at New York's Signature Theater earlier this year. Previous work includes Cambodian Rock Band (Signature Theater) and The Great Leap (Atlantic Theater, New York).

Mother Russia is directed by Oscar Toeman, making his Hampstead debut. Recent stage work includes Double Indemnity (UK tour), Hundred Feet Tall (Old Vic tour) and Farewell Mr Haffman (Park Theatre).

'A new play that’s as funny as it’s smart' The New York Times

Captioned:

• Wednesday, 27th January, 7:45pm
  
• Thursday, 28 January, 2:45pm
  

Touch Tour:

• Saturday, 30th January, 7:45pm

Important Information

Content warnings: strong language, death, guns, violence, reference to war, and reference to suicide.

Age Restrictions

Ages 14+.

Performance Times

Now taking bookings for performances from Fri 18th December 2026 until Sat 30th January 2027.

Show times for each day are below.

Hampstead Theatre Details

Facilities at Hampstead Theatre

Hampstead Theatre Location

Please note: The location shown on the map is an approximate location of the theatre. In the majority of cases the theatre will be marked on the map so please make sure you locate the exact location yourself. If the theatre is not shown on the map please make sure you locate the correct road name and take account of the directions.