The Wanderers is a moving and thought-provoking play inspired by true events. It delves deeply into the complexities of relationships, faith, and family, offering a nuanced exploration of how people navigate love and identity within different cultural frameworks.
Set within the Jewish community, the story follows two very different marriages that reflect contrasting worlds. Esther and Schmuli are Orthodox Jews living within the confines of strict religious rules and traditional gender roles. Their lives are guided by faith and duty, highlighting the tension between devotion and personal freedom. In contrast, Sophie and Abe are secular Jews, free to make their own choices, yet still bound by the universal struggles of marriage, expectation, and emotional fulfillment.
The narrative centers on Abe, played by Alexander Forsyth, as he reflects on his past and the state of his marriage to Sophie. Though outwardly successful, their relationship begins to fracture. The dynamic shifts when Abe receives an email from Julia, played by Anna Popplewell.
Popplewell’s performance is captivating, her casual charm and subtle emotional depth make their online connection feel authentic and dangerously intimate. The play raises a compelling moral question: if a relationship exists only through digital correspondence, is it still considered infidelity?
Visually, the production is stunning. The staging is one of its strongest elements, incorporating recurring snow motifs that evoke both beauty and melancholy. Snow gently falling onto the cast adds atmosphere and emotional resonance, perfectly reflecting the coldness and fragility within the characters’ lives. The clever use of clear glass whiteboards as part of the set design is another highlight. The actors draw and write on these surfaces, seamlessly blending visuals with storytelling. Even simple props like chairs and tables also use the same glass whiteboards that are used innovatively, enhancing the narrative’s flow and intimacy.
While the production’s themes are profound, some of the monologues feel overly long, occasionally slowing the pacing and diluting the emotional tension. The dialogue sometimes leans too heavily into philosophical territory, which, while intellectually engaging, could benefit from more concise delivery to maintain momentum.
Overall, The Wanderers is a beautifully staged and emotionally resonant production. It offers a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics, faith, and the human desire for connection. Despite a few pacing issues, the play leaves a lasting impression—encouraging reflection on love, loyalty, and what it truly means to be fulfilled.
The Wanderers runs until 29th November 2025 at Marylebone Theatre with tickets available at Marylebone Theatre.
Reviewer: Zain Russell
Reviewed: 22nd October 2025
North West End UK Rating: