Oscar-winning actress Jessie Buckley is set to return to the London stage, taking the lead role in Afterbirth, a new play by Nina Segal, as the Royal Court Theatre unveils the first details of its 2027 programme and offers a glimpse of its plans for 2028.
Described by the theatre as a “funny, furious, and unflinching” exploration of life after childbirth and the realities of parenthood, Afterbirth centres on the experiences of a mother navigating the challenges of life following birth.
The Royal Court's synopsis introduces the central character, Annie, with the repeated reassurance: “The baby is fine. The birth was fine. Annie is fine. She's fine. She's really, really, really fine.”
A teaser trailer featuring Buckley has also been released, offering an early glimpse of the upcoming production.
Directed by Maria Aberg, Afterbirth will receive its world premiere at the Royal Court Theatre on 15 January 2028, with performances scheduled to continue until 26 February.
Tickets will go on sale through the theatre's official website at midday on Wednesday, 4 November.
Born in Killarney, County Kerry, Buckley has built an acclaimed career across film, television and theatre. Her most recent London stage appearance was in the 2022 revival of Cabaret at the Playhouse Theatre, where her performance earned her a Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical.
Her casting in Afterbirth marks another major theatre role for the Irish star, whose work has earned widespread recognition across the entertainment industry.
With its focus on the complexities of motherhood and the pressures surrounding parenthood, Afterbirth is shaping up to be a notable addition to the Royal Court's upcoming programme.
