Reading Rep Theatre has announced the full cast for its upcoming spring production of Noël Coward’s Private Lives, running from 16 April to 9 May.
Christopher Bonwell, known for West End productions of The Mousetrap and The Woman in Black, will make his Reading Rep debut as Elyot.
Emile John, best known for playing Ethan Anderson in ITV’s Emmerdale from 2021 to 2024, makes both his stage debut and Reading Rep debut in the role of Victor.
Rose-Anna Nicholson, a member of the Reading Rep Theatre Youth Ensemble, will make her professional stage debut as Louise.
They join previously announced cast members Amy Di Bartolomeo, who was Olivier Award nominated for her role in The Devil Wears Prada, as Amanda, and Orla O’Sullivan, returning to the theatre as Sybil.
The production is directed by Matthew Forbes, who said “I’m absolutely thrilled to be working with Emile as Victor and Christopher as Elyot. Both actors bring a wealth of experience from television and London’s West End, along with a depth, precision and charisma that make them a perfect fit for Coward’s world. Their understanding of rhythm, language, and emotional nuance will bring tremendous sophistication to these roles, and paired with our previously announced cast members Amy Di Bartolomeo and Orla O’Sullivan, our audiences will have a truly fabulous evening at the theatre.”
He added “I’m equally proud that this production will mark the professional stage debut of a member of the Reading Rep Theatre Youth Ensemble. Offering the opportunity to step into a professional production, and to work alongside performers of genuine West End calibre, is incredibly exciting. Creating that bridge between emerging local talent and established industry professionals sits at the heart of what Reading Rep is about. It’s not only an invaluable experience for a young actor at the start of their career, but a powerful statement about nurturing the next generation of artists right here in our community.”
Private Lives will run from 16 April to 9 May at Reading Rep Theatre, with a press night on Monday 20 April at 7.30pm.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
