The National Theatre has released a first look at rehearsals for its upcoming production of The Misanthrope, starring Sandra Oh in her National Theatre debut.
Written by Martin Crimp and directed by Indhu Rubasingham, the new version of Molière’s classic satire will run in the Lyttelton Theatre from 16 June to 1 August 2026.
Sandra Oh will play Alice, a reimagined version of the famously uncompromising Alceste, now depicted as a bold and outspoken novelist navigating the complexities of modern life.
The production places the story in a contemporary setting, using verse to explore private relationships, public discourse and the consequences of speaking out.
As Alice challenges social conventions and confronts uncomfortable truths, her personal relationships begin to fracture under the weight of her convictions.
The cast includes Paul Chahidi, Abigail Cruttenden, Imogen Elliott, Rina Fatania, Freddie MacBruce, Tom Mison and Jemima Rooper, alongside a company of young performers and understudies.
The creative team features set and costume designer Robert Jones, lighting designer Tim Lutkin, composer Anna Meredith and sound designer Alexander Caplen.
Movement direction is by Lucy Hind, with casting by Alastair Coomer and Martin Poile, and voice work by Jeannette Nelson.
The production will have a press performance on 23 June, with a range of accessible performances scheduled throughout the run.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.Â
