We are proud to have presented the premiere production of Barbary Lion at the Drayton Arms Theatre in January 2026.

“Such is the case with most empires – nothing like that lasts forever.”

In the near future, two “compatible” strangers are brought together in a sterile room to talk. Just to talk. 

But as questions are asked and unseen observers listen in, it becomes clear that the conversation is anything but casual. 

Why have they been matched? What’s being tested? And what will happen when the talking stops?

Blending tension, humour, and razor-sharp social commentary, Barbary Lion explores identity during political and social crisis, examining what we inherit, what we cling to, and what we choose to leave behind.

Seed to Stage worked in close collaboration with Chandler Hubbard to develop this new piece in its premiere production at the Drayton Arms Theatre.

"Directed by Harrison Hartley, the movement remains clear, and the two characters' physicality resembles who they are as a person. John remains still, stuck in his often-piggish ways, while Sarah moves frantically, moving quickly from one focus to another. The quick dialogue was masterfully navigated by the two performers, the razor-sharp subject changes and emotional depth was felt and exciting to watch." 

Freya White, London Theatre Reviews