Mark Rylance will star in the world premiere of Tartuffe (Remixed), a brand-new adaptation of Molière’s satirical comedy, opening at the Marylebone Theatre this Autumn.
The strictly limited run marks Rylance’s return to the venue following his sold-out appearance in Venus and Adonis in 2024.
Written and directed by Darren Raymond, the production relocates Molière’s biting critique of hypocrisy to a contemporary African-Caribbean family household, blending new humour with modern emotional resonance.
The show is co-produced by Marylebone Theatre, Patrick Myles and David Luff, in partnership with Intermission Ensemble, the graduate arm of award-winning drama charity Intermission Youth.
The production also reunites Rylance with celebrated designer ULTZ, following their collaborations on Jerusalem and Much Ado About Nothing. Further casting and creative team announcements are expected soon.
In a unique creative pairing, Rylance will perform alongside members of Intermission Ensemble, graduates of Intermission Youth, an organisation he has long supported as a trustee and advocate.
Alexander J Gifford, Artistic Director of the Marylebone Theatre, said: “For many years, Darren has been creating amazing, ‘remixed’ versions of Shakespeare’s plays for Intermission Youth. With Mark he has turned his hand to Molière and the result is a brilliantly funny, surprisingly poignant new play. Mark was born to play Tartuffe and I have no doubt that he will deliver another iconic stage-performance. I am tremendously excited to be partnering with Intermission Ensemble, whose professional actors have come up through the theatre company’s youth programme. The alumni are not just fantastically talented, but highlytrained and united by a spirit of family. I expect audiences to fall in love with Tartuffe (Remixed) and for it to be hailed as an outstandingly original, deeply moving version of the classic French comedy.”
Darren Raymond said: “The production is a massive nod to the next generation. Mark will be starring alongside some of Intermission Youth’s alumni. This isn’t just a performance; it’s a tangible bridge between a stalwart of the stage and the young talent he has spent years mentoring. I am thrilled to see our company’s signature style come to life, where original verse meets the raw, rhythmic tapestry of cultural sounds that define our modern society.”
Mark Rylance added: “Since 2009 I’ve adored Darren Raymond’s productions of Shakespeare, created for his Intermission Youth theatre company. So, I’m very excited to work with him directing Intermission Ensemble, a professional company, remixing Moliere’s satirical masterpiece.
“Darren’s genius for language and humour guarantees this will be a Tartuffe like no other. Our early rehearsals have been hilarious. The mix of a corrupt English missionary in a contemporary African Caribbean family culture is bringing out the authentic cadence and revolutionary meaning of this classic play.”
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
