CCP’s National Theatre Live examines personal convictions and power in The Fifth Step and The Audience

 The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), in partnership with National Theatre Live and Ayala Malls Cinemas, brings two acclaimed British theatre productions to Philippine cinema screens on October 27 at 6:00 p.m. through the third season of CCP’s National Theatre Live.

David Ireland's The Fifth Step premieres at Ayala Greenbelt 3 Cinema in Makati, while Peter Morgan's The Audience premieres at Ayala Vertis North, Nuvali in Laguna, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay. Through these simultaneous screenings, CCP’s National Theatre Live continues its commitment to making international theatre more accessible to Filipino audiences.

Written by acclaimed Irish playwright David Ireland, The Fifth Step follows James, a recovering alcoholic with years of sobriety, who takes newcomer Luka under his wing as he begins his journey through a twelve-step recovery program. What begins as a friendship grounded in shared experiences gradually develops into a more complicated relationship as their differing beliefs challenge their understanding of trust, faith, and recovery.

Blending dark humor with emotional intensity, the play explores addiction, vulnerability, and the complexities of human connection. As the two men confront their personal convictions, their relationship raises questions about the boundaries of mentorship and the difficult process of rebuilding one's life.

The Fifth Step features Olivier Award winner Jack Lowden and Emmy and BAFTA Award winner Martin Freeman. The production enjoyed a sold-out West End run before being brought to international audiences through National Theatre Live.

Meanwhile, The Audience, written by Peter Morgan, offers an intimate glimpse into the private weekly meetings between Queen Elizabeth II and her prime ministers throughout her reign. Behind closed doors, the monarch engages in conversations with the leaders who shape Britain's political landscape, revealing the tensions between personal convictions, public duty, and the changing course of history.

Through these encounters, the play examines the relationship between the Crown and government, while offering a perspective on the Queen's life and leadership across decades of political and social change.

The Audience has earned acclaim for its portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II's private meetings with British prime ministers. The original West End production received two 2013 Laurence Olivier Awards, with Helen Mirren winning Best Actress for her portrayal of the Queen and Richard McCabe winning Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his performance as Prime Minister Harold Wilson. Both actors later reprised their roles on Broadway, earning Tony Awards in 2015 for their performances.

Both productions form part of CCP’s National Theatre Live Season 3, which runs from September 2026 to August 2027. In partnership with National Theatre Live and Ayala Malls Cinemas, the program presents acclaimed stage productions filmed live before theatre audiences and specially adapted for cinema screens, allowing Filipino viewers to experience the best of British theatre.

Witness these powerful performances on the big screen through CCP’s National Theatre Live. Catch The Fifth Step at Ayala Greenbelt Cinema, and The Audience at Ayala Vertis North, Nuvali, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay on October 27 at 6:00 p.m.

For ticket information and updates, follow the official social media accounts of the Cultural Center of the Philippines and visit the CCP website.