London Theatre | 6 – 10 October 2026
After three years on the road, Tides (An Autism Story) is coming to an end. Dylan Ward’s semi-autobiographical one-man show plays its final run at the Drayton Arms Theatre in South Kensington from Tuesday 6 to Saturday 10 October.
Here are five reasons to catch it while you can.
1. A story told from real experience
Dylan Ward is autistic. He has his own way of thinking and his own way of doing things, but no one seems to understand him. Based on real experiences of growing up autistic, Tides asks a simple but powerful question: how do you get by in a world that runs on a completely different wavelength to yours?
2. Monty Python-style laughs with real heart
This isn’t a heavy lecture. The show blends Pythonesque silliness with moments of drama, giving an insight into the wonderful and challenging world of autism from, in its own words, one particularly silly individual. Expect to laugh as much as you think.
3. A proven hit from Edinburgh and beyond
Tides had a critically acclaimed run at the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe and was runner-up for the Newcastle Fringe Festival Theatre Award. In London it has played The Hope Theatre, Upstairs at the Gatehouse for Camden Fringe 2024, The Union Theatre and a sell-out run at New Wimbledon Theatre. It has also toured to Guildford, Salford, Newcastle, Chichester, York and Manchester.
4. Your last chance to see it
These are the show’s official final performances. There are just five nights, so if you’ve been meaning to see it, this is the week to go.
5. A short, affordable night out
The show runs for an hour with no interval, and tickets are £17.30 including booking fees. The Drayton Arms is a cosy pub theatre, so you can grab a drink downstairs before or after. It’s recommended for ages 15+. There are some loud noises, flashing lights (no strobes) and some content that some viewers may find upsetting.
Tickets and info
Tides (An Autism Story)
Drayton Arms Theatre, 153 Old Brompton Road, London SW5 0LJ
Tuesday 6 – Saturday 10 October 2026, 7.30pm
Tickets £17.30 (including booking fees) | Running time 1 hour, no interval | Age 15+
Nearest stations: Gloucester Road and South Kensington