This revival of Peter Shaffer’s play will officially open on the 27th May.
Production images have now been released for Caroline Steinbeis’s production of Peter Shaffer’s play, which will continue to play at the Orange Tree Theatre until the 11th July.
The cast is set to include: Javier Marzan (Georg Bamberger): Patricia Allison (Clea), Joe Bannister (Brindsley Miller), Jason Barnett (Colonel Melkett), Chris Chilton (Schuppanzigh), Leah Haile (Carol Melkett), Julia Hills (Miss Furnival) and Simon Manyonda (Harold Gorringe).
Young sculptor Brindsley Miller is on the brink of success. He is expecting a visit from an influential art collector, whose approval could secure his future, and he is determined to present himself as sophisticated and successful.
The problem? His flat is sparsely furnished, most of the contents borrowed without permission from his neighbour – but when a sudden power cut plunges the building into darkness, Brindsley sees an opportunity. In the absence of light, he believes his deception will go unnoticed. Unbeknownst to him, the audience can see everything.
As friends, rivals, lovers, and unexpected guests arrive, the situation spirals rapidly out of control, and Brindsley’s desperate attempts to influence events only make matters worse.
Talking about the production, Director, Caroline Steinbeis said: “We have assembled a company that thrills me in every direction: an exhilarating blend of bold new voices, familiar Orange Tree favourites, and truly legendary comedy performers. Black Comedy is a dazzling farce, and I can’t wait to get started and shed light on these superb characters and uncover all their delicious contradictions. This cast brings precision, mischief, and heart in equal measure, and I know audiences are in for something truly special, surprising, and gloriously entertaining from start to finish.”
Meanwhile, the creative team is completed by: John Nicholson (Physical Comedy Consultant), Simon Daw (Set and Costume Design), Elliot Griggs (Lighting Design), Simon Slater (Sound Design) and Helena Palmer CDG (Casting Director).
To book tickets visit: https://orangetreetheatre.co.uk/whats-on/black-comedy/