Goblin, the award-winning darkly comic solo show written and performed by Derek Mitchell, is heading to Park Theatre’s Park90 this November. Set in 2007 and steeped in early-noughties nostalgia, the show explores growing up, obsession, isolation and the transformative power of being seen.
Overview
At the centre of Goblin is 15-year-old Eliot, who speaks to his imaginary friend, confidant and constant companion, Goblin. As Eliot grows from an emo teenager into adulthood, he becomes increasingly isolated within his family and drawn into a secretive and destructive relationship with Max, a much older alternative British reality TV star.
The audience itself becomes a character within the story, forming part of an hour-long theatrical experience that shifts between characters and genres. The production has been developed over several years across Camden People’s Theatre, Pleasance and Summerhall before its 2026 Park Theatre run.
Production Images
Photography: Fan Liao.
Awards and acclaim
Goblin has won a Binge Fringe Queer Performers Award and received a string of four and five-star reviews. The show blends comedy with darker material, using laughter as both a storytelling device and a way into difficult experiences.
Cast and creative team
- Writer, performer and co-sound designer: Derek Mitchell
- Co-directors: Ellie BW and Sammy Glover
- Lighting designer: Han Sayles
- Co-sound designer and musical composition: Hattie North
- Set designer: Hazel Low
- Additional dramaturgy: Ben Target and Kathy Maniura
- Poster design and art direction: Jessica Kuhn
- Photography: Fan Liao
Dates and venue
- Dates: 17 November–5 December 2026
- Venue: Park Theatre (Park90), 11–13 Clifton Terrace, Finsbury Park, London N4 3JP
- Running times listed: 8.45pm and 2pm performances
- Tickets: £15–£18
Content guidance
The production is recommended for ages 16+. The supplied guidance notes strong language, themes of sexual grooming and exploitation, references to suicide, loud noises, moments of complete darkness and audience participation.
Accessibility
If you have particular access requirements, check Park Theatre’s current accessibility and access-performance information when booking.
Why see Goblin?
This looks like one for readers who enjoy theatre that sits somewhere between dark comedy, confessional storytelling and unsettling character work. Its 2007 setting also gives the show a distinctive early-noughties backdrop while its themes of identity, isolation and difficult relationships reach well beyond nostalgia.
More Theatre on Clarissa’s Corner
For another current Park Theatre production, read our Holy Fool at Park Theatre 2026 guide. You can also explore more queer performance and current theatre across Clarissa’s Corner.
