Joe Locke Stars in West End Play Clarkston Exploring Terminal Illness and Colonial Legacy

The West End production of "Clarkston," a play by Samuel D. Hunter starring Joe Locke, has opened at the Trafalgar Theatre with a limited run until November 2025. Locke, known for his role in Netflix's "Heartstopper," portrays Jake, a terminally ill young man on a quest to retrace the route of his explorer ancestor while working at a Costco in Clarkston, Washington. The play explores themes of friendship, identity, and hope amidst struggles such as drug abuse and familial dysfunction, with Locke's performance praised for capturing romantic ennui and vulnerability. Co-stars Ruaridh Mollica and Sophie Melville add depth, particularly in their portrayals of Chris, a semi-closeted shelf-stacker with dreams of writing, and his meth-addicted mother. Critics note that while the play touches on colonial history and personal growth, it sometimes feels stretched and would be better suited to a smaller venue. Overall, the production is recognized for its emotional resonance and the strong performances of its cast, particularly Locke's transition from screen to stage.