Debuting in London as part of The Hope Theatre’s North Sapph-Fest 2026, The Risotto Is Burning is a charming, bite-sized comedic drama by Sophie Underwood.
We meet Annabelle (a wonderfully anxiety-riddled Georgia Brown) and Ben (a James Acaster-esque Jacob Lovick), a late-twenties couple who’ve moved into a properly grown up — if small — new flat.
To prove their adultness, Annabelle has invited her two best friends from uni over for a classy dinner party. She might not be able to cook a decent risotto, but she’s determined to be a good host. Unfortunately, the night soon falls apart when Leah (Naia Elliott-Spence) brings along her 20-year-old girlfriend Layla (Katy Richmond) and Maddy (also played by Underwood) brings along her new “partner”… a blue fuzzy puppet called Charlie.
What unravels is a funny and relatable exploration of identity, friendship, and the fear of growing up. There are some really touching depictions of friendship and uncertainty, and the cast do a great job of bringing extra depth to Underwood’s sparky script.
While I understood the constraints of the space there were moments when the blocking of the scenes resulted in me seeing nothing but the back of the actors’ heads for several minutes. I’m not sure which venue this play will be heading to next, but this is something to consider for its next staging.
The most fun moments in this show are when it really leans into absurdism. When Annabelle served up the risotto by plonking ladles of it straight onto the tablecloth, I cackled — especially as none of the characters batted an eye at this.
Undoubtedly, the shining star of this play is Charlie, and Underwood’s puppetry skills are masterful. I could have happily watched their ridiculous double act for another hour, and I think there’s scope to push this silliness even further. Overall, The Risotto is Burning is a sharp, tight 45-minute situational comedy that leaves you ready for a second helping.
Reviewer: Olivia Cox
Reviewed: 8th August 2026
North West End UK Rating:
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