Excitement is building at the National Theatre as rehearsals begin for the upcoming production of Shakespeare’s Coriolanus.
Directed by National Theatre Associate Lyndsey Turner, known for her work on Under Milk Wood and The Crucible, this staging will feature David Oyelowo in the titular role. Oyelowo, widely recognized for his performances in Selma and Lawmen: Bass Reeves, brings a powerful presence to the role of Rome’s greatest soldier.
Joining Oyelowo on the Olivier stage are Chereen Buckley, Ashley Gerlach, Sam Hazeldine, Kemi-Bo Jacobs, Marcia Lecky, Pamela Nomvete, Oliver Senton, and Jo Stone-Fewings. Additionally, four young actors—Kyron Allen, Deniro-Carter Bhola, Kaelum Nelson, and Cale Cole—will rotate in the role of Young Marcius throughout the season. They will perform alongside previously announced cast members Luke Aquilina, Anushka Chakravarti, Anton Cross, Patrick Elue, Peter Forbes, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, Conor McLeod, Jordan Metcalfe, Richard Pryal, Jordan Rhys, Stephanie Street, and John Vernon.
Coriolanus tells the story of Rome’s most celebrated warrior who becomes its most dangerous enemy. As Coriolanus stands for election after a legendary victory, his refusal to pander to populist politicians leads to dramatic consequences for both himself and the city of Rome. The narrative explores the fine line between heroism and villainy, and the precarious balance of power in a society teetering on the brink of chaos.
This highly anticipated production boasts a stellar creative team including set designer Es Devlin, costume designer Annemarie Woods, lighting designer Tim Lutkin, sound designer Tom Gibbons, video designer Ash J Woodward, fight director Sam Lyon-Behan, composer Angus MacRae, and casting director Bryony Jarvis-Taylor. Voice coaches Cathleen McCarron and Shereen Ibrahim, along with associate set designer Claudia Fragoso, associate costume designer Philip Engleheart, and staff director Júlia Levai, round out the team.
Performances will run from 11 September to 9 November 2024 at the Olivier Theatre.