The Barn Theatre in Cirencester and the Arcola Theatre have confirmed that they will be teaming up to co-produce the world premiere of Cat Goscovitch’s new play.  

Directed Nicolas Kent, the new play by Cat Goscovitch is based on a true story and will play at the Barn Theatre from the 18th May until the 13th June. Following its run at the Barn Theatre, the production will then open at the  Arcola’s new outdoor space, Arcola Outside,in East London.

A Russian Doll follows twenty-something Masha as she becomes embroiled in the world of data and deceit as a member of Russia’s disinformation campaigns during the EU referendum.

The news of the production will also mark the Barn Theate’s first live indoor performances since their run of Peter Pan was cut short on Christmas Eve due to the Cotswolds moving into Tier 3 prior to the third national lockdown.

Talking about the news, Cat Goscovitch, who is the daughter of the acclaimed playwright C. P. Taylor, said of her play, “The EU referendum was a moment that changed the history of the United Kingdom forever. In writing this play, I wanted to explore what role Russian disinformation played in influencing the vote and how it impacted not just our political lives but also our personal. How does a click become a vote? What does it mean to take someone down the rabbit hole? And will we ever come back?”.

The world premiere production’s creative team is set to include: design by Liz Da Costa, lighting by Sam Rowcliffe-Tanner, sound and composition by Harry Smith and AV design by Benjamin Collins.

Talking about the Barn Theatre reopening, Iwan Lewis, Artistic Director and CEO of the Barn Theatre, said: “We love great partnerships here at the Barn Theatre. We were able to negotiate a global pandemic through creative and brilliant collaborations and it’s great to kick off our 2021 season with another. The Arcola Theatre produce incredible work and we are proud to be working with Leyla and her wonderful team on this incredibly exciting new play. We are also incredibly excited to showcase the partnership between one of the most exciting new voices in the industry, Cat Goscovitch, and one of the most acclaimed directors in the country, Nicolas Kent, with A Russian Doll.”

A Russian Doll will play at the Barn Theatre from the 18th May until the 13th June.