Kiln Theatre and ETT today announce the cast for the world première of The Ballad of Hattie and James by Samuel Adamson. Artistic Director of ETT, Richard Twyman directs Sophie Thompson and Charles Edwards as Hattie and James, with Suzette Llewellyn as Bo, Mrs Arbuthnot, Rosamund, Louise, Eve and Madame Schultz.
The production opens at Kiln Theatre on 18 April, with previews from 11 April, and runs until 18 May.
Kiln Artistic Director Amit Sharma said today, “We are thrilled to unveil the phenomenal cast who will bring The Ballad of Hattie and James to life. The combined talents of Sophie Thompson, Charles Edwards and Suzette Llewellyn promise an unforgettable exploration of lifelong friendship in Samuel Adamson’s poignant play. Under Richard Twyman’s harmonious direction, I’m confident audiences will be deeply moved by this powerful story. All of us at Kiln are delighted to be working with ETT on this epic play.”
Richard Twyman added, “We’ve managed to put together a truly brilliant cast and creative team for the Ballad of Hattie & James, and I can’t wait to start work with them to realise Sam’s beautiful and quietly radical new play. It’s shaping up to be a really exciting collaboration between the whole team, and between Kiln and ETT, and we look forward to sharing what we make with audiences.”
At St Pancras International, a woman sits at the piano and begins to play. The music captivates commuters, tourists and, following a viral clip, people around the world. Behind the music is the incredible story of a lifelong duet – the ballad of Hattie and James.
Throughout their lives, Hattie and James find themselves inextricably linked, for better or worse, and cannot help but replay the experiences that have shaped them.
An impassioned story from Samuel Adamson that asks who gets to have their voice heard, and can you ever settle the score?
