Set in St Petersburg in 1992, Mother Russia follows childhood friends Evgeny and Dmitri as they navigate the upheaval following the collapse of communism. With capitalism bringing new opportunities and uncertainties, the pair turn to espionage and racketeering in an attempt to secure their futures. Their first surveillance assignment involves Katya, a young woman with experience of life in the West, and Evgeny soon develops feelings for her despite secretly monitoring her.

As their work exposes them to the contradictions of a newly liberalized society, the characters confront questions about freedom, ambition, loyalty, and identity. Written by Lauren Yee, whose plays include Cambodian Rock Band and The Great Leap, the production marks the UK premiere of Mother Russia. Directed by Oscar Toeman, it follows a previous New York run at Signature Theatre.