Benedict Lombe’s play Shifters is set to begin its North American premiere at the Cherry Lane Theatre, marking a significant transfer from London. The production features Olivier-nominated Heather Agyepong and Daniel Ezra in leading roles.

Shifters will start previews on 6 July at the Cherry Lane Theatre, with an official opening scheduled for 15 July. The run is planned through to 30 August, presenting the story of old friends Des and Dre reconnecting at the wake of Dre’s grandmother, stirring memories of their shared past.

Heather Agyepong reprises her Olivier-nominated role as Des, which she first performed at London’s Bush Theatre during the play’s 2024 premiere. The production then transferred to the West End’s Duke of York Theatre later that year. Daniel Ezra plays Dre, bringing his experience from Netflix’s All American to the New York stage.

Lynette Linton, who directed the original London productions, returns as director for the New York transfer. The play explores themes of connection and memory with a tenderness noted by WhatsOnStage, which praised its careful unfolding.

The New York staging is produced by Eleanor Lloyd Productions and Chuchu Nwagu Productions, in association with Sonia Friedman Productions. The transfer reflects the growing international interest in Lombe’s work, following a successful London run.

Shifters adds to the list of British plays making the journey across the Atlantic, highlighting the cross-cultural appeal of contemporary UK theatre. The production’s focus on intimate emotional landscapes continues to resonate with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.