New rehearsal images have been released for Orange Tree Theatre’s forthcoming revival of T.S. Eliot’s Murder in the Cathedral, directed by Artistic Director Tom Littler with Community Director Francesca Ellis.
The production opens at Richmond’s St John the Divine Church on 19 October, with previews from 12 October, before transferring to Theatre Royal Bath from 10 to 21 November.
The newly released rehearsal photography offers an early look at Emmy Award-winning actor David Suchet as Thomas Becket, alongside the cast and community ensemble bringing Eliot’s landmark verse drama to life.
Joining Suchet are Mensah Bediako, Ben Caplan, Paul Hickey, Jyuddah Jaymes, Michael Lyle, Nick Sampson, Jad Sayegh and David Yelland. In Richmond, the Chorus will be led by Sally Cheng, Sonya Cullingford, Chyna-Rose Frederick and Rebecca Thorn, with local community performers forming the Women of Canterbury.
Set in 1170, Murder in the Cathedral follows the conflict between King Henry II and Archbishop Thomas Becket. Returning to Canterbury despite growing danger, Becket faces mounting pressure from political and spiritual forces as tensions build towards a fateful confrontation.
Written in 1936, the play is widely regarded as one of Eliot’s greatest theatrical achievements, exploring themes of faith, temptation, power and martyrdom.
Speaking when casting was announced, Tom Littler said: “It’s a particular pleasure to welcome this exceptional company to join David Suchet, who leads the production as Becket. Murder in the Cathedral is one of the great achievements of twentieth century verse drama, and Eliot’s questions of conscience and power feel as urgent now as when he wrote them. I’m especially proud that our Women of Canterbury will be played by members of our community ensemble, continuing the Orange Tree’s commitment to building genuine links with the people and communities around us. This is set to be a truly special production, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience it.”
The creative team includes set designer Rob Jones, costume designer Cat Fuller, lighting designer Peter Mumford, sound designer and associate music director Max Pappenheim, music director Michael Waldron, composer Orlando Gough, casting director Matilda James CDG and movement director Lizzi Kew Ross.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
