The play raises questions of privilege and moral accountability in the Hamptons
Category: Arts & Culture
Noah Schnapp, best known for his role in Netflix's *Stranger Things*, will make his stage debut in the world premiere of *Affluenza* at Riverside Studios, running from September 26 to November 21, 2026. The cast includes popular figures such as Janette Manrara from *Strictly Come Dancing*, Rupert Young from *Bridgerton*, Juliet Cowan, and Wallis Currie-Wood.
*Affluenza*, written and directed by Andy Sandberg, is the first production in Riverside Studios' Mainstage Season 26/27. The play is set against the backdrop of the affluent Hamptons and tackles themes of moral accountability and the consequences of privilege, following a tragic incident involving a privileged teenager's intoxicated car ride.
Sandberg expressed his excitement about the cast, stating, "This cast is absolutely extraordinary, and I’m beyond grateful to be working with such a gifted company. To see how each of these brilliant actors has responded to the *Affluenza* script and story is inspiring, and I could not be more excited that they are joining our exceptional creative team to debut this play at Riverside Studios." The press night for the production is scheduled for October 5, 2026.
The ensemble cast of *Affluenza* is comprised of notable performers, each bringing a wealth of experience to the stage. Janette Manrara, who has captivated audiences with her dance performances, joins Schnapp in this thought-provoking narrative. She is joined by Rupert Young, an Olivier Award nominee known for his roles in *Bridgerton* and *Dear Evan Hansen*.
Also featured are Juliet Cowan, recognized for her work in *Broken Glass* at the Young Vic, and Wallis Currie-Wood, who is known for her appearances in *Madam Secretary* and *Elektra* on the West End. The creative team supporting this production includes Set Designer Charlie Corcoran, Costume Designer Hannah Schmidt, Lighting Designer Jack Weir, and Sound Designer Emily Drohan. The casting is managed by Nicholas Hockaday, with Cecilie Fray serving as the Associate Director.
*Affluenza* raises challenging questions about privilege and moral responsibility. The story is inspired by true events surrounding a controversial legal defense that involved a teenager who used financial privilege as a justification for a tragic drunken driving incident. Set in the opulent surroundings of the Hamptons, the play examines the generational consequences of wealth and the ethical dilemmas that arise from it.
As the narrative progresses, it confronts audiences with the uncomfortable truth about how privilege can distort perceptions of right and wrong. The play's exploration of these themes is particularly timely, echoing with contemporary discussions about social justice and accountability.
*Affluenza* is the inaugural play of Riverside Studios' Mainstage Season 26/27, which features a total of five new productions. Following *Affluenza*, the season will continue with *Sacrilegious*, written by Oscar-winning screenwriter Tom Schulman, running from December 5, 2026, to January 23, 2027. The third production, *Expecting*, by Scott Elmegreen and Drew Fornarola, is set to take the stage from January 30 to March 27, 2027.
Andy Sandberg, who serves as the Artistic Director for the season, will direct each of the productions. His vision for the season aims to present contemporary stories that engage with globally relevant themes, ensuring that audiences are entertained and challenged to think critically about pressing societal issues.
Tickets for *Affluenza* are currently available, with prices starting at £25. The running time of the play is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including an interval. The recommended age for the performance is 14 and above, making it suitable for older teens and adults.
As Riverside Studios prepares for the premiere of *Affluenza*, anticipation is building among theatre-goers eager to witness the debut of Noah Schnapp on stage. With a talented cast and a thought-provoking script, the production will likely be a powerful exploration of privilege and accountability in today's society.
As Sandberg noted, the play's narrative is not just a reflection on individual actions but a broader commentary on societal values. With its premiere just weeks away, *Affluenza* is set to captivate audiences and provoke meaningful conversations.
The world premiere of *Affluenza* runs from September 26 to November 21, 2026, at Riverside Studios, with tickets available through the venue's website. This production marks an exciting beginning for the Mainstage Season 26/27, and audiences are encouraged to secure their seats early to experience this timely and impactful theatrical event.