The Barn Theatre in Cirencester and the Arcola Theatre in London have today announced that Rachel Redford (The Jungle, Gap Year), will star as Masha in the world premiere of Cat Goscovitch’s new one woman play, A Russian Doll.
The play, which is based on a true story, 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.
Rachel Redford’s previous credits include originating the role of Beth in Joe Murphy and Joe Robertson’s critically acclaimed play The Jungle, which she played in the original Young Vic production as well as subsequent productions in the West End, Off-Broadway and in San Francisco.
A Russian Doll, which will be directed by Nicolas Kent (All The President’s Men?, Another World), will run in Cirencester from 18 May – 12 June 2021, with press night on 20 May at 7pm. Following the run in the Cotswolds, the production will open Arcola’s new outdoor space, Arcola Outside, in East London.
The world premiere will feature design by Liz da Costa, lighting by Sam Rowcliffe-Tanner, sound and composition by Harry Smith, AV design by Alex Tabrizi, Amy Ball as casting director and Katherine Heath as voice and accent coach.
Director Nicolas Kent said of Redford’s casting, “It is a delight to be working with Rachel Redford she is extremely talented young actor who made a huge impression when I first saw her in the West End acclaimed play: The Jungle.”
The production will also mark the Barn Theatre’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.
Tickets for the Barn Theatre run are now on sale at barntheatre.org.uk, with prices from £11.50.
Performance dates for the run at the Arcola Theatre to be announced in due course.
One thing in common – they are members of one of the most corrupt, powerful and toxic families in the country.
One prime suspect – the celebrated writer in the middle of compiling a history of the family.
A simple open and shut case?
Anything but…
What a Carve Up!chronicles the events leading up to the ‘Winshaw Murders’, examining evidence that was never considered at the time and asking the unanswered questions surrounding one of the most shocking crimes you’ve probably never heard of.
This thrilling murder mystery is written by Henry Filloux-Bennett, based on the award-winning novel by Jonathan Coe, and directed by Tamara Harvey. Produced by The Barn Theatre, Lawrence Batley Theatre and New Wolsey Theatre.
Suitable for those 16+ (Features strong language and graphic descriptions of murder). All screenings have captioning functionality.
: current/future_show
: 41755
: Online screening: Once you have purchased your ticket you will receive a booking confirmation including your screening link. This link will expire after 48 hours
: 31/10/2020
: GL71BN
: 29/11/2020
: South West
: By Henry Filloux-Bennett, based on the novel by Jonathan Coe. A co-producion between the Barn Theatre, the Lawrence Batley Theatre and the New Wolsey Theatre
The Barn Theatre has announced today that they will re-open for live indoor theatre performances on 10 September with the transfer of Private Peaceful. The production will run in the main auditorium following the production’s acclaimed sell out run at the theatre’s first outdoor theatre festival, BarnFest, in August.
The theatre has announced changes they have implemented to ensure audience safety throughout their experience. The theatre will run at a reduced capacity with Perspex screens being placed between groups with a new seating layout to ensure social distancing measures are adhered to. The theatre has also announced that they have a new and upgraded air filtration system which exceeds governing guidelines to ensure the experience is the safest the theatre can provide. The cast and creative team will also adhere to Government guidance on social distancing and temperature checks.
The safety measures that were successfully utilised during BarnFest – the theatre’s outdoor theatre festival – including temperature checks on arrival, mandatory masks for all patrons over 11 years old, staggered arrival times, sanitisation of public areas and hand sanitiser at entrance and exit points will continue for indoor theatrical performances.
Based on the modern classic by Michael Morpurgo (War Horse, The Butterfly Lion), Private Peaceful tells the story of Tommo Peaceful as he reflects upon the events that made him the person he is now, from first love to fighting on the battlefield alongside his brother. Set against the backdrop of World War One, the intimate production runs from 10 – 27 September, with press night on Tuesday 15 September.
Michael Morpurgo, the internationally best-selling author of Private Peaceful and long-time supporter of the Barn Theatre, visited the production during its run at the Barn Theatre’s outdoor theatre festival BarnFest for an exclusive post-show Q&A and gave his seal of approval saying, “It was extraordinary, very moving and utterly committed. It didn’t feel like a play at all. It felt like they were telling a story that they really cared about. Really great acting, top notch”.
Private Peaceful will be performed by Emily Costello and James Demaine, directed by Alexander Knott with Zöe Grain as associate director and movement director. The transfer production will feature sound design by Harry Smith (Henry V, Daddy Long Legs) and lighting design by Sam Rowcliffe-Tanner (Henry V, Just So).
Artistic Director Iwan Lewis said of re-opening, “It’s time to get theatre back indoors and safety is our number one priority! Our team have adapted incredibly to provide the safest possible theatrical experience over the Summer with our outdoor theatre festival BarnFest. Having seen the overwhelming responses from both audience members and critics on how safe and enjoyable their visits were, we are confident that we can replicate and further the same experience indoors. It is fundamental that we maintain this high standard when welcoming our audience members indoors for the first-time following lockdown. Temperature checks, Perspex screens between booking groups, a new seating layout, upgraded air filtration system, staggered arrival times, we are implementing every possible safety measure to ensure that our audiences are provided with the highest quality entertainment in the safest possible environment.”
Private Peacefulis a co-production by BoxLess Theatre, Barn Theatre and Take Two Theatricals, with associate producer Thomas Hopkins.
The Peaceful brothers, Tommo and Charlie, have a tough rural childhood facing the death of their father, financial hardship and a cruel landlord. Their fierce loyalty to each other pulls them through, until one day they both fall for the same girl. And then the Great War comes. Can a bond and loyalty between brothers overcome the brutality of the front lines and bring them safely home?
As Tommo sits in his cell awaiting sunrise, he thinks back on the events that made him the person he is now.
Private Peacefulwas shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, won the Red House Children’s Book Award and won the Blue Peter Book Award. Acknowledged by Michael Morpurgo (War Horse, The Butterfly Lion) as his favourite work, this one-man adaption by Simon Reade tells the story of a country lad fighting a war he doesn’t understand, for people he cannot respect.
Private Peaceful
Based on the book by Michael Morpurgo
Adapted by Simon Reade
Directed by Alexander Knott
Associate Director & Movement Director: Zöe Grain
Sound Design: Harry Smith
Lighting Design: Sam Rowcliffe-Tanner
Cast: Emily Costello & James Demaine
A co-production by BoxLess Theatre, Barn Theatre & Take Two Theatricals, with associate producer Thomas Hopkins
