The world premiere production will take place from the 3rd September until the 10th October.
Initial casting has now been announced for the world premiere of Ava Pickett’s new play, which will begin performances this autumn.
Michelle Dockery (Downton Abbey, ITV & Focus Features; upcoming filmThe Queen of Fashion) will play Helen opposite Laura Aikman (Gavin & Stacey, BBC; upcoming new series of Line of Duty, BBC) who makes her stage debut as Cee in the new play. Further casting has yet to be announced.
Years after she walked out on her family, Helen has returned home after a war fought in her name. Her husband celebrates, her childhood friend Cee does not. Over the course of this first fragile night of peace time, wounds reopen, loyalties fracture and the true cost of a woman’s choice to leave her life is made clear.
The world premiere production will be directed by Lisa Spirling, marking her directorial debut as Stratford East’s new Artistic Director.
The creative team will also include 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.
Speaking of the news, 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.”
Meanwhile, Laura Aikman continued: “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.”
To book tickets visit: https://www.stratfordeast.com/whats-on/all-shows/bloodsport-after-helen-of-troy