Theatre enthusiasts can anticipate seeing Paul Mescal on stage twice in 2027, following the acclaimed Irish actor’s commitment to two major productions at the National Theatre.
Best known for his roles in “Normal People” and the upcoming “Gladiator II,” Mescal will feature in two significant plays from the 20th century: “Death of a Salesman” and “A Whistle in the Dark.”
These performances are part of an impressive slate of new projects unveiled on Tuesday by Indhu Rubasingham, the revered London venue’s recently appointed artistic director.
Other notable talents set to appear at the National Theatre in the coming years include Oscar nominee Monica Barbaro and “Bridgerton” star Nicola Coughlan. Additionally, renowned rap artist Stormzy is collaborating with the institution on a forthcoming production.
Rubasingham was named artistic director in December 2023, succeeding Rufus Norris following his decade-long leadership.
For the first time since 2020, the National’s Lyttelton Theatre will operate under a repertory model, staging several productions simultaneously with shared cast members.
Under this new approach, Paul Mescal is set to make his National Theatre debut in both Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman” and Tom Murphy’s “A Whistle in the Dark.”
Although the two plays are rooted in distinct settings and cultures, theatre officials noted they explore overlapping themes such as familial dysfunction and societal pressures.
Mescal, the 2023 Olivier Award recipient for his role in “A Streetcar Named Desire,” will portray Biff Loman in “Death of a Salesman.” The actor set to play Willy Loman, the play’s pivotal character, has not yet been announced.
American actress Monica Barbaro, recently nominated for her portrayal of Joan Baez in the Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown,” will star in a revival of the romantic classic “Les Liaisons Dangereuses.”
She will be joined by “Poldark” actor Aidan Turner and the esteemed Lesley Manville, both making their National Theatre debuts.
Elsewhere, “Derry Girls” star Siobhán McSweeney, “Bridgerton” standout Nicola Coughlan, and “The Sixth Commandment’s” Éanna Hardwicke will collaborate in a production of John Millington Synge’s Irish classic, “The Playboy of the Western World.”
A highly anticipated partnership between the National Theatre and rapper Stormzy was also revealed, with specific details yet to be disclosed.
This initiative, which Rubasingham initially put forward in her application for the role, was described as a “cut-through show that goes beyond theatre.”
Rubasingham shared that, after joining, she spent several months actively working with Stormzy’s team. The artist became involved after a personal visit to the site.
She expressed excitement for the collaboration and confirmed the project will feature Stormzy’s music, though further specifics were not given.
In his statement, Stormzy said he has “always been drawn to theatre” and that he formed an immediate connection with Rubasingham. “I’m excited to go on this creative journey with her,” he commented.
Additionally, “Black Panther” actor Letitia Wright will appear in “The Story,” a new play by American playwright Tracey Scott Wilson that focuses on a tenacious Black journalist defying her editor in pursuit of a powerful lead.
Other productions highlighted during Tuesday’s announcement include:
Originating from Sheffield and of Sri Lankan descent, Rubasingham becomes the National’s seventh artistic director since its establishment by Sir Laurence Olivier in 1963, and the first woman to hold the post.
Speaking to press, she articulated her vision for the National’s future: “telling bold stories in big ways, which cross continents, move hearts and open minds.”
“It’s vital that longtime National Theatre supporters continue to feel welcome, just as much as those discovering us for the first time,” she said.
Asked if she hoped to reinstate pre-pandemic levels of repertory theatre at the venue, Rubasingham replied: “If finances make it possible, it would be wonderful.”
She added, “Repertory productions are more costly, but they allow for greater creative risks and the chance for word-of-mouth to build an audience.”
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