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Jordan Luke Gage Brings a True 18th-Century Gay Love Story to the London Stage
READ TIME: 2 MIN.
Theatre audiences in London are set to experience a rarely told chapter of LGBTQ+ history as "Redcliffe," a new musical by West End star Jordan Luke Gage, is scheduled for a limited run at Southwark Playhouse Borough from May 2026. The production, which Gage both wrote and stars in, dramatizes the true story of William Critchard and Richard Arnold—two men whose love defied the harsh legal and social realities of 18th-century England .
Following a series of sold-out workshop performances at The Other Palace in 2024, anticipation has grown for the fully staged production at Southwark Playhouse. Gage, well-known for his roles in West End musicals such as "Bonnie & Clyde" and "& Juliet," has described "Redcliffe" as his most personally fulfilling project, citing the significance of bringing to light a story that has remained largely untold in public theatre .
“It has been my greatest fulfilment creating 'Redcliffe' and exploring the world of 18th century Bristol, a time that was beyond terrifying for men like me to exist in,” Gage stated. “To be able to tell this story, one which has never been told on the public stage, and to be able to hopefully move, uplift and change people, is beyond thrilling for me as both writer and actor” .
Set in Bristol’s Redcliffe district during the 1750s, the musical centers on William, a man of humble origins, whose encounter with Richard Arnold—a sailor temporarily in town—leads to a relationship fraught with both passion and peril. At a time when same-sex relationships were criminalized, the pair’s love story unfolds against a backdrop of legal and societal hostility, reflecting the broader persecution faced by LGBTQ+ people for centuries .
The narrative does not shy away from the realities of the era, including the threat of violence and the use of homophobic language , but also emphasizes the courage and humanity of individuals who dared to love authentically in the face of danger .
"Redcliffe" offers not only historical insight but also an urgent message of representation and affirmation for contemporary audiences. The creative choice to center an authentic true story, performed by an openly gay artist, resonates with ongoing efforts to diversify narratives on mainstream stages and highlight the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals throughout history .
The Southwark Playhouse’s commitment to staging "Redcliffe" reflects a broader movement within the arts community to recover and celebrate queer histories that have been marginalized or suppressed. By telling William and Richard’s story, the musical invites audiences to reflect on the enduring challenges and triumphs of LGBTQ+ people, both past and present. The production is recommended for ages 14 and up, with further casting and full content guidance to be announced .
As "Redcliffe" prepares for its highly anticipated debut in 2026, it has already sparked conversations about visibility, resilience, and the transformative power of theatre. Audiences and critics alike await the full realization of a narrative that promises to uplift, educate, and inspire, ensuring that the stories of LGBTQ+ individuals from all eras are given the recognition and respect they deserve .
