Soho Theatre has revealed the cast for Tender, a new play by Dave Harris running in its Main House from 24 April to 30 May. The production places audiences inside a struggling strip club as a pivotal family conflict unfolds.

Tender, set in a faltering strip club facing fierce competition, follows the owner’s daughter as she arrives with radical ideas to rescue the business. Audiences will experience the story through on-stage seating, immersing them within the club’s atmosphere.

Darren Bennett, Dex Lee, and Kwami Odoom appear as the Dancing Bears, while Jessie Mei Li plays the daughter whose arrival sparks change. The drama reunites director Matthew Xia with writer Dave Harris; the pair previously collaborated on the acclaimed Tambo & Bones.

The creative team also features designer Ultz, lighting designer Ciarán Cunningham, and sound designer Roly Botha. Shelley Maxwell oversees choreography and intimacy direction, with Heather Basten casting the ensemble.

Production management is led by Toby Smith for The Production Family, alongside associate designer Mark Simmonds, associate costume designer Maybelle Laye, and assistant director Wiebke Green. The press night is scheduled for 30 April.

Tender is part of Soho Theatre’s Main House season, continuing the venue’s commitment to new writing addressing contemporary issues. The play’s intimate staging and setting highlight challenges facing both business and personal relationships in a competitive environment.