Essential Theatre presents

The Mistake

By Michael Mears

Directed by Rosamunde Hutt

Direct from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, an urgent new play by Michael Mears exploring the events surrounding the catastrophic ‘mistake’ that launched our nuclear age.

1942. On a squash court in Chicago a dazzling scientific experiment takes place, which three years later will destroy a city and change the world – forever. Through the lives of a brilliant Hungarian scientist, a daring American pilot and a devoted Japanese daughter, this fast-moving, compelling drama confronts the dangers that arise when humans dare to unlock the awesome power of nature.

Content Warning: Some verbal descriptions of dead and dying/wounded people.


★★★★ “‘The past comes alive - a gripping piece of storytelling.’”THE TIMES

★★★★★ “‘I was genuinely blown away by this production. A dramatic treat.’”UK THEATRE WEB

★★★★ “‘A powerful examination of humanity in the wake of Hiroshima.’”THE LIST

★★★★ “‘Masterful, devastating story-telling. Director Rosamunde Hutt presents the heart-rending tale with forensic attention and gentle compassion.’”THE WEE REVIEW

★★★★ “‘An evocative, well-researched, urgently fascinating story.’”THE SCOTSMAN