The production will run at the Marylebone Theatre.
It has been announced that Mark Rylance will star in a new version of Molière’s comedy classic at the Marylebone Theatre.
Written and directed by Darren Raymond, recipient of Shakespeare’s Globe’s prestigious Sam Wanamaker Award 2025, this new version of the play is relocated to an African-Caribbean household.
The strictly limited season will take place this autumn, with dates yet to be confirmed.
In the lead-up to Christmas, the outspoken Afolabi–Williams family gathers at Oga Afolabi’s mansion for their annual four-week reunion, a tradition always fraught with drama. This year is especially eventful as preparations unfold for Marianne’s wedding to Valere. Tensions escalate with the arrival of Tartuffe, a seemingly devout man who has quickly gained Oga’s trust and a permanent place in the household, despite others’ suspicions. As the holiday approaches, the family must confront rising conflicts over faith, manipulation, and control beneath their polished traditions.
This co-production between Marylebone Theatre, Patrick Myles and David Luff in partnership with Intermission Ensemble, marks Rylance’s return to Marylebone Theatre following his 2024 sell-out performance of Venus and Adonis.
Patrick Myles and David Luff are the producers behind Dr Strangelove (West End) and Network (National Theatre and Broadway). Their recent production of The Price, their first co-production with the Marylebone Theatre starring Henry Goodman, opened in April.
Talking about the news, Mark Rylance said: “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.”
Meanwhile 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.”
Further information on the production will be announced soon.
To keep up with further information visit: https://www.marylebonetheatre.com/productions/tartuffe-remixed