Actor Noah Schnapp, widely known for his role as Will Byers in the Netflix hit series Stranger Things, and former Strictly Come Dancing professional Janette Manrara are leading the world premiere of Andy Sandberg’s dark comedic play Affluenza at London’s Riverside Studios. Due to high ticket demand, the Off-West End production has officially extended its run through November 28, 2026.
The production officially opened on September 26, 2026. It marks the first of five plays featured in the venue’s Mainstage 26/27 season. Loosely inspired by a true story involving a privileged teenager whose drunk driving incident ends in tragic devastation, the narrative is set against the ultra-wealthy backdrop of the Hamptons. The two-hour-and-fifteen-minute play examines complex themes of extreme wealth, moral accountability, and the American justice system. It focuses on a controversial defense strategy arguing that the teenager suffered from “affluenza.”
Star-Studded Cast and Creative Team
Noah Schnapp is making his eagerly anticipated stage debut. He and Janette Manrara lead a six-person ensemble cast. The other cast members are Olivier Award nominee Rupert Young (Bridgerton, Dear Evan Hansen), Juliet Cowan (Broken Glass), Wallis Currie-Wood (Madam Secretary, Elektra), and Donald Sage Mackay.
Andy Sandberg serves as both writer and director for the production. The creative team includes set designer Charlie Corcoran, costume and associate set designer Hannah Schmidt, lighting designer Jack Weir, and sound designer Emily Drohan. Nicholas Hockaday serves as casting director, with additional material provided by Scott Elmegreen.
Playwright and Director Andy Sandberg on the Production
Speaking about the cast and the world premiere, Andy Sandberg expressed enthusiasm for the project:
“This cast is absolutely extraordinary, and I’m beyond grateful to be working with such a gifted company. To see how each of these brilliant actors has responded to the Affluenza script and story is inspiring, and I could not be more excited that they are joining our exceptional creative team to debut this play at Riverside Studios.”
Strong audience response has driven the production to extend its calendar. Affluenza is the flagship production of Sandberg’s multi-play season at Riverside Studios. Other new works, including Sacrilegious and Expecting, will follow it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Affluenza
What is Affluenza about?
Affluenza is a dark comedic play. It explores themes of immense wealth, privilege, family legacy, and moral accountability. The plot follows a teenager’s drunken car crash that leads to tragedy and a controversial courtroom defense.
Who stars in the play?
The cast is led by Noah Schnapp in his stage debut and Janette Manrara. They star alongside Rupert Young, Juliet Cowan, Wallis Currie-Wood, and Donald Sage Mackay.
Where is Affluenza playing in London?
The production is running at Riverside Studios, located at 101 Queen Caroline Street, London, W6 9BN.
How long is the run extended until?
Due to high ticket demand, the production has extended its run through November 28, 2026.
Who wrote and directed Affluenza?
The play is written and directed by Andy Sandberg. It is part of Riverside Studios’ Mainstage 26/27 season.
