Vodka with Stalin at Upstairs at the Gatehouse

In 1917 their world was full of love, hope, and the certainty of an end to poverty and hatred. Things didn’t turn out like that. 

The true story of Rose Cohen in Moscow as Stalin’s purges began. Can her former lover, now Britain’s Communist leader and a drinking chum of Stalin, protect her?

“A compelling historical drama” from Francis Beckett, author of sell-out shows Tom Lehrer Is Teaching Math and Doesn’t Want To Talk To You and A Modest Little Man. Vodka with Stalin returns to the Gatehouse after two sell-out runs in 2023. 

Running Time: 2 hours including interval

Reviews for Vodka with Stalin

"Vodka with Stalin is terrific theatre on cruelty to individuals in pursuit of a collective goal."
Kevin Maguire, political editor, Daily Mirror 

"I was spellbound. The best political play since the David Hare classics. Terrific acting."
Denis MacShane, former Minister for Europe 

"Deeply researched and compelling."
Mary Conway, Morning Star 

"Francis Beckett is particularly skilled at writing political plays which also bring out the humanity in his characters."
Lizzie Loveridge, Theatrevibe

"As always with Francis’s work, you cannot fail to become emotionally and physically close to the characters."
John McDonnell MP, The House Magazine 

"An enjoying and informative historical play with a solid narrative."
All That Dazzles 

"A compelling historical drama."
London Pub Theatres 

"An extraordinary play about love and betrayal in the communist movement."
Nick Cohen