York Theatre Royal has announced the full cast and creative team for its major UK revival of Margaret Atwood’s The Penelopiad, which opens in October under the direction of Creative Director Juliet Forster.
Joining the previously announced Amelia Bullmore in the role of Penelope are Nell Baker, Danielle Bird, Olivia Burton-Laws, Faye Campbell, Pena Iiyambo, Kat Johns-Burke, Syakira Moeladi and Charlie Russell.
Adapted by Atwood from her acclaimed novella, The Penelopiad reimagines Homer’s The Odyssey through the perspective of Penelope and her chorus of maids, offering a contemporary feminist take on one of literature’s most enduring stories.
The production marks the first major UK revival of the play since its premiere at Stratford-upon-Avon’s Swan Theatre in 2007, when it was co-produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company and Canada’s National Arts Centre.
Juliet Forster said: “It has been such a joy to meet so many brilliant women over the last couple of months, and what a phenomenally talented cast and creative team we have lined up for The Penelopiad! It is clear just how strongly this story resonates with people today, and I am looking forward to a rehearsal room buzzing with excitement and creativity.
“Margaret Atwood’s powerful script is so rich with wit and humour as she unveils a new feminist perspective on the familiar Odyssey myth. The show is interwoven with songs and exuberant movement and we hope to offer audiences an entirely different way of understanding the story of Penelope and her maids – and most importantly a great night out!”
Alongside Forster, an all-female creative team has been assembled, with Sara Perks as designer, Alexandra Stafford as lighting designer, Kate Marlais as composer, musical director and sound designer, Michelle Edwards as movement director, and Ellie Collyer-Bristow CDG as casting director.
The story follows Penelope, immortalised as the faithful wife waiting two decades for Odysseus to return from the Trojan War. From the underworld, she recounts her version of events, exploring themes of injustice, betrayal and revenge while challenging the myths that have shaped her legacy.
Bullmore, whose stage and screen credits include Happy Valley, Gentleman Jack, The Crown and Di and Viv and Rose, leads the company as Penelope.
To improve accessibility, the first preview performance on 10 October will be offered on a Pay What You Choose basis, allowing audiences to decide how much they wish to pay.
The Penelopiad runs at York Theatre Royal from 10 to 31 October 2026, with an official press night on 14 October.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
