What If?

England, 1914. Young bookseller Max and his best friend Sam have both fallen for Lily, a suffragette. As World War I unfolds, will Max follow patriotic Sam and enlist, or stay and campaign for social reform with Lily? Be it in cruel trenches or impoverished streets, turmoil is inevitable. Navigating war, politics, love, and brotherhood, Max must choose between desire and loyalty, between his duty and principles. What will he do? What path will his river take to the sea? That’s where you come in…

Written and performed by baritone Kieran Rayner (playing multiple characters) with the wonderful Gamal Khamis at the piano, this moving and entertaining story combines live classical music with a branching narrative where the audience votes on what happens, shaping the plot and musical programme. Featuring songs by Finzi, Butterworth, Schubert, Robert & Clara Schumann, Ethel Smyth and more, What If? is an unforgettable evening of choose-your-own-adventure with song at its soul – whichever of the eight possible endings you see!

“A story told well with fun characterisation and lots of genuine humour… genuinely affecting … a feast of joys” – Everything Theatre

What If? is substantially different each time it is performed (based on audience votes). If you’re intrigued by the possibilities, we encourage you to come to both performances, to see two potentially different versions of the story. If you do, we have a special offer: your second ticket is half price.