Stratford East has announced initial casting for the world premiere of Ava Pickett’s Bloodsport: After Helen of Troy, with Michelle Dockery and Laura Aikman leading the company in the new production directed by Artistic Director Lisa Spirling.
The production will run from 3 September to 10 October 2026, with a press night on 10 September. An additional week of performances has been added, with tickets available from £10.
Dockery, best known for Downton Abbey, will play Helen, while Aikman, whose screen credits include Gavin & Stacey and the forthcoming series of Line of Duty, will make her professional stage debut in the role of Cee.
Set years after Helen returns home following a war fought in her name, the play explores the fallout of her decision to leave, as old friendships, loyalties and family bonds are put under strain during a fragile night of peace.
Described as a story about friendship, motherhood and the consequences of a woman’s choices, the play reimagines the aftermath of one of mythology’s most famous conflicts through a contemporary lens.
The creative team includes Set and Costume Designer Polly Sullivan, Lighting Designer Zeynep Kepekli, Sound Designer and Composer Nicola T. Chang, Movement Director Kloé Dean, Casting Director Juliet Horsley CDG and Dramaturg Ed Madden.
Michelle Dockery said “Ava is such an extraordinary voice in storytelling right now and I’m delighted to be part of this bold reimagining of Helen’s return from Troy. Stratford East’s history of bringing vital and ambitious stories to life makes it the perfect home for this production.”
Laura Aikman said “From the moment I read Ava’s brilliant script I was desperate to play Cee. I think we can deliver something really gripping and I can’t wait to get started.”
Ava Pickett said “I feel so excited and lucky to be working with Lisa, Michelle and Laura on this new play at Stratford East. To be given the opportunity to reimagine characters we feel we know is such a privilege and I can’t wait to share this story with audiences!”
Lisa Spirling said “When I first read Ava’s debut full length play ‘Bloodsport’ 3 years ago, I was struck by how powerful, prescient and visceral it is. To tell this mythical story of Helen of Troy at Stratford East, through Ava’s laser sharp lens is thrilling and to get to do that with our phenomenal creative team and company led by Michelle and Laura is ridiculously exciting. The Stratford Team and I are buzzing to bring Bloodsport to Stratford East and to share it with our audience.”
The production marks Spirling’s directorial debut as Artistic Director of Stratford East, with further casting to be announced.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
