Almeida For Free: Cleansed
Free events exclusively for those aged 16-25
Event details
Thu 13 Aug 2026
On Thu 13 Aug we are hosting a free performance of Cleansed, along with an Q&A with Rebecca Frecknall – both events exclusively for those aged 16-25. Scroll down for more information on each event.
Both events as part of Almeida For Free are free and exclusive to audiences aged 16-25.
If you have any access requirements or needs we should be aware of, please let us know by emailing participate@almeida.co.uk or calling 020 7288 4917.
Cleansed For free Performance
This free performance is exclusively for those aged 16-25
Thu 13 Aug, 7.30pm
Please note that Cleansed explores challenging and sensitive themes.
Read more about our production guidance and warnings>
I love you now.
I’m with you now.
I’ll do my best, moment to moment, not to betray you. Now.
That’s it. No more. Don’t make me lie to you.
Two lovers and two siblings.
How far are they prepared to go to prove their devotion? And will their love survive when subjected to the most extreme violence?
Sarah Kane was one of the most original and controversial voices in British playwriting history. Rebecca Frecknall (A Streetcar Named Desire; Cabaret) directs Kane’s masterpiece which explores the brutality of desire and asks what happens to love when there’s nothing else worth living for?
Recommended for ages 16+.
Thematic triggers:
This production includes prolonged nudity, torture, mutilation, murder, sex, incest, violence including sexual violence, forced eating, suicide including hanging, drug abuse and drugging, gender reassignment surgery as well as homophobic and misogynistic language, needles and blood.
Technical triggers:
This production includes blackouts, flashing lights, latex and loud, sudden noises including recorded gunshots.
You can find full production information about Cleansed here>
Please note tickets are limited to two per booker for Almeida For Free: Cleansed. Any tickets booked over this number will be returned. This policy is in effect to discourage and prevent unfair ticket buying practices. Proof of age must be brought to the performance for each ticketholder.
Content
Please note that Cleansed explores challenging and sensitive themes.
Read more about our production guidance and warnings>
A copy of the script will be available at the theatre should you need any further details on the content. We’ve also created a self-care guide to help you prepare, and to point you towards support if you need it.
Decompression space
Please note that our auditorium will remain open for a short while after the performance should you need to decompress. There will also be tea and coffee provided in the foyer during and after the show.
Access
This is a relaxed environment performance and it will be captioned. To book with a clear view of the captions, a wheelchair space, or a reserved seat, deaf and disabled patrons and their companion/s can contact the Box Office for support on 020 7359 4404 or email boxoffice@almeida.co.uk
Q&A with REBECCA FRECKNALL
Thu 13 Aug, 3.30pm (approx. 1 hour)
Location: Almeida Theatre, Almeida Street, London, N1 1TA.
Join Rebecca Frecknall for this Q&A session focused on the rehearsal process for Cleansed, by Sarah Kane.
Rebecca Frecknall is a multi-Olivier Award-winning director, who has directed in the UK and internationally. She is the Associate Director at The Old Vic, and Ibsen Artist in Residence at the Internationaal Theater Amsterdam. She was Associate Director at the Almeida Theatre from 2019-2026 and was previously on the Almeida’s Resident Director scheme supported by the Eranda Rothschild Foundation.
This Q&A is suitable for theatre-makers and artists from all backgrounds. No experience is necessary.
Due to the nature of the production, please be aware that the Q&A may explore challenging and sensitive themes including: torture, murder and violence, including sexual violence, depictions of sex and nudity, depictions of drug abuse and depictions of suicide.
Read more about our production guidance and warnings>
Please note tickets are limited to two per booker for the free performance of Cleansed and two per booker for the Q&A.
If places are full for an event, please email participate@almeida.co.uk with the event name in the subject line to be put on the waiting list.
The Almeida is committed to supporting participants with access requirements. You can contact our box office on 020 7359 4404 before tickets go on sale to make any enquiries about these events, or contact access@almeida.co.uk
