Tender is the dazzling and moving play by Eleanor Tindall (Before I Was A Bear, Soho Theatre), described by The Voice Magazine as ‘an engrossing exploration of repressed sexuality, self-discovery and the search for belonging’, is directed by Emily Aboud (Lady Dealer, Bush Theatre).
‘My daydreams are just her now. She is in every corner of my brain, waiting.’
Tender
Ivy has her life sorted; she has a flat, a boyfriend, and knows exactly where it’s all headed. However, there is one thing she tries not to think about—the thing she left in her childhood bedroom.
“An engrossing exploration of repressed sexuality, self-discovery, and the search for belonging”
The Voice Magazine
Ash should be having the time of her life. However, after just coming out of a bad relationship, she is burdened with feelings she can’t seem to let go of. To make matters worse, there’s something strange about her new apartment. The wallpaper seems to pulse, and at times, it even sounds like a heartbeat.
Two women. A chance encounter that tumbles into infatuation. And an undeniable force waiting just out of sight, ready to wreck it all.
“Deeply entertaining. Combines the sweetness of a contemporary queer rom-com with the dark underbelly of body horror.”
Broadway Word
Tender is by turns thrilling and surreal, and promises to subvert your expectations of queer love stories. Playing for a strictly limited run, this upscaled production reunites the original creative team behind the 2024 sold-out Studio hit. The cast will be announced.
“I am so delighted to have this chance to revisit Eleanor Tindall’s fantastic play at the Bush. Director Emily Aboud’s enthusiasm and vision for the production have only grown since 2024, so I have no doubt that she and the creative team will create something extraordinary as we transfer to the larger Holloway Theatre at the Bush. The way that audiences embraced ‘Tender’ during our extended Studio run was really special to witness and demonstrated a hunger for queer love stories that are complex and twisty. I can’t wait to share the production with more people.”
Tender Producer Jessie Anand
Tender runs from 9 July – 1 August 2026 at The Bush Theatre, 7 Uxbridge Road, Shepherd’s Bush, London W12 8LJ, United Kingdom.
