Still Got It: Love, Life and Second Chances in Invisible Me

Alec and Lynne finding hope. Photo credit Harry Elletson

There’s something quietly radical about a play that centres people in their sixties – not as background characters, not as comic relief, but as fully realised individuals still navigating love, loss and the messy business of starting over. And that’s exactly what Invisible Me delivers at Southwark Playhouse Borough right now.

Written by Bren Gosling, this comedy-drama introduces us to three single Londoners – Jack, Alec and Lynn – each carrying their own emotional baggage, and each, in their own way, wondering if life might still have something unexpected in store. It’s a premise that could easily slip into cliché, but Gosling’s script feels refreshingly grounded. It’s funny, yes, but also deeply observant, packed with those small, painfully recognisable truths about relationships, ageing and the fear of being left behind.

What makes Invisible Me so affecting is just how relatable it all feels. These are stories we don’t often see on stage – dating after decades of marriage, estrangement from children, rediscovering confidence after years in an unhappy relationship. It’s not glossy or idealised, and that’s exactly why it works. There’s something comforting about seeing experiences closer to “our age” reflected back with such honesty and warmth.

At the heart of it all is Tessa Peake-Jones as Lynn, and she’s simply wonderful. Best known to many for her comedic roles, Peake-Jones shows remarkable range here, shifting effortlessly between sharp humour and moments of real vulnerability. One minute she’s delivering a perfectly timed quip, the next she’s revealing the quiet toll of years spent in a loveless, abusive marriage. It’s a layered, compassionate performance that anchors the entire production.

She’s joined by James Holmes as Jack, whose story as a widower living with HIV is handled with sensitivity and grace, and Kevin N Golding as Alec, a man stuck somewhere between his punk past and an uncertain present. Together, the trio create a believable, often touching dynamic – their interactions full of awkwardness, humour and those tentative steps towards connection.

There’s a lovely balance throughout between lightness and depth. The play never shies away from heavier themes, but it also understands the importance of laughter – particularly when life hasn’t turned out quite as planned. It’s this tonal balance that makes the piece feel so human. It could perhaps be a little shorter, in particular the final scene dancing at the over 50s disco felt rather drawn out.

Ultimately, Invisible Me is a celebration of second chances – and a gentle reminder that the desire for companionship, excitement and change doesn’t come with an expiry date. It’s warm, witty and quietly moving, with a script that feels both insightful and authentic.

And perhaps most importantly, it’s just really nice to see a play that puts people like this – people like us – centre stage.

Cast:

Tessa Peake-Jones (Lynn)

James Holmes (Jack)

Kevin N Golding (Alec)

Creative Team:

Writer: Bren Gosling

Producer: BACKSTORY and Joe Brown

Venue: Southwark Playhouse Borough

Address: 77–85 Newington Causeway, London, SE1 6BD

Run: Wednesday 8 April – Saturday 2 May 2026

Booking