Unexpected Twist

based on the novel by John Ajvide Lindqvist
National Youth Theatre (2026) 
presented in Association with Marla Rubin Prod. 

Designer: Jonathan Fensom
Lighting Designer: Matt Haskins
Sound Designer: Dan Balfour
Co-Sound Designer: Florence Hand
Movement Director: Arielle Smith
Fight & Intimacy Directors: Rachel Cristi Brown-Williams and Ruth Cooper-Brown for Rc-Annie Ltd
Video Designer: Libby Ward
Assistant Director: Ben Grant
Dramatherapist: Samantha Adams
Costume Supervisor: Esmé Dann
Illusion Consultant: John Bulleid
Voice Coach: Marcia Carr
Makeup and Hair Designer: Elizabeth Hedley

Cast

Olamide Ajisafe
Michelle Asante
Joshua Aketse-Entsie
Colin Tierney
Rachael Dowsett
Nicky Dune
Rhys Quilley
Sasha Jagsi
Louise Coggrave
Jo Bentley
Rhia Burston
Sumah Ebele
Devonté Sackitey
Amy Young
Jack David Collard
Maya Coates
Nicholas Bhar
Christopher Yi
Luka Wellman
Mascuud Dahir

★★★★ “A really well staged version of a story that can now be considered a modern classical. Exactly the right amount of thrills and chills… best of all, Dacre maintains the ambiguities of the story. A very satisfying night.” The Stage

★★★★ “This production is a good one, anchored by winning performances” The Independent 

★★★★ “Directed by James Dacre, the production resists sensationalism in favour of emotional clarity, allowing character rather than concept to drive the action.” Theatre Weekly 

★★★★ “Captivating, chilling, and carefully crafted… the production strikes an impressive balance between tender, touching, teenage angst alongside the sinister, supernatural savagery, juggling the two with confidence and control. An impressive, cohesive collaboration by the talented cast and creative team.” The Reviews Hub

★★★★ “Emotionally intelligent, visually assured and anchored by outstanding performances.” A Youngish Perspective

★★★★ “A fascinating evening…there is never a dull moment as Dacre’s pacing is well-nigh perfect and the whole production well drilled.” London Theatre

★★★★ “Outstandingly impressive” All That Dazzles