Sex Education’s Asa Butterfield to star in Second Best

The TV and film actor will make his stage debut in the one-man comedy play at the Riverside Studios from 24 January 2025.

Written by Barney Norris and based on David Foenkinos’ best-selling novel, Second Best tells the fictional story of the boy who came second to play Harry Potter. Directed by the former Artistic Director of the Donmar Warehouse, Michael Longhurst he will be joined by Set and Costume Designer Fly Davis.

At ten years old, Martin Hill was on the brink of stardom, down to the final two contenders for the role of Harry Potter but narrowly missing out. Now an adult, Martin is about to embark on the ultimate adventure – fatherhood. As he navigates this whirlwind of emotions, he is pulled back to that pivotal moment in his past as he struggles to move beyond imagining what his life might have been.

Second Best is a playful yet poignant new comedy about fate, near-misses and the winding paths life takes. It explores the ache of almost touching greatness and the humour and hope that come when dreams remain just out of reach.

Second Best will play at the Riverside Studios from 24 January - 22 February 2025. Tickets are available now at www.secondbestplay.com