“Thanks for Having Me“ is a warm hug of a play. It’s like that comfy old jumper you reach for on a slightly chilly evening – it’s familiar, and it leaves you with a genuine smile.
Welcome to the world of best friends Cashel (Keelan Kember) and Honey (Kedar Williams-Stirling). The completely awkward and neurotic Cashel has just broken up with his long term girlfriend. He gatecrashes his best friends date, promptly moves in with him and together they navigate the post break up dating scene, Honey insisting the single life is the way to go, while Cashel longs for a cosy relationship. It was great to see Kedar Williams -Stirling out of his “Sex Education” and “Red Pitch” comfort zone playing the serial dater-accountant-best friend who gradually embraces his vulnerable side as he advises Cashel in the ways of women and date nights.
A huge Afridiziak shoutout to Keelan Kember, writer and star for his hilarious and seamless performance– what a talent! What truly shines is Kember’s knack for dialogue that zings with a natural wit, peppered with those little observations and 100 mile a minute unspoken thoughts we’ve all had but rarely voice. You’ll find yourself nodding along in recognition, and chuckling at a situation that feels plucked straight from your own life – or one of your friends.
Ultimately, “Thanks for Having Me“ is a genuinely charming and uplifting piece of theatre. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of minor chaos, there’s often a lot of love and laughter to be found in the small moments, the shared laughter, and the comforting relatability of human connection. You’ll leave the theatre feeling good -a little lighter, a little more connected, and with a warm smile on your face, genuinely thinking, “Well, that was just lovely. Thanks for having me.”
Need to know: “Thanks For Having Me” plays at the Riverside Studios until 26 April 2025
