Full casting has been announced for the UK premiere of Tracey Scott Wilson’s acclaimed play The Story, opening at the National Theatre’s Olivier theatre from 27 August to 24 October 2026.
Directed by National Theatre Associate Artist Clint Dyer, this gripping exploration of racial politics and journalistic ethics brings a powerful American drama to UK audiences for the first time.
BAFTA Award-winner Letitia Wright will make her National Theatre debut as Yvonne, an ambitious reporter determined to break a major story at any cost.
She is joined by Aliyah Odoffin as Latisha, Ashley Thomas as Neil, Lorraine Toussaint as Pat, and Wilf Scolding as Jeff.
Additional cast members include Antonia Bernath as Jessica Dunn, Josh Goulding as Tim Dunn, Jay Simpson as Detective, and Unique Spencer as Adrienne.
Further ensemble casting sees Arianne Carless, Roland Royal III and Matt Whitchurch join previously announced performers Tee Arnold, Donna Augustin, Reanna Bleu, Katie Buchholz and Linseigh Green.
Clint Dyer said: “In a time of little nuance, the cost of a ‘story’ is felt…This timely, important play by Tracey Scott Wilson fearlessly talks into why we should always fight for the truth. I can’t wait to work with this incredible cast and creative team to bring The Story to the Olivier stage this autumn.”
Set in a high-pressure newsroom, The Story follows four journalists racing to uncover the truth behind the murder of a white teacher in a Black neighbourhood.
As new evidence emerges, each reporter must decide how far they are willing to go to shape the narrative and claim the headline.
The creative team includes set designer Anna Fleischle, costume designer Natalie Pryce, lighting designer Paul Anderson, and sound designer Benjamin Grant.
Movement direction is by Lucie Pankhurst, with video design by Gino Ricardo Green and Tal Yarden, and intimacy direction by Ingrid Mackinnon.
Casting is by Alastair Coomer CDG and Martin Poile CDG, with dialect coaching by Hazel Holder and voice work by Cathleen McCarron.
The Story runs in the Olivier theatre at the National Theatre, South Bank, London, with press night on Thursday 3 September 2026.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
