Gemma Jones stars in Arcola Rivals directed by Selina Cadell

Classic comedy The Rivals is being revived at the Arcola Theatre next month, in a production directed by actress Selina Cadell.

Written in 1775 by Richard Brinsley Sheridan, the Bath-set play is one of the best known of the Restoration Comedies, and features the infamous Mrs Malaprop, who will be played at the Arcola by Gemma Jones.

Jones' screen credits include Bridget Jones's Diary and the Harry Potter films, while on stage she recently played Queen Margaret in Sam Mendes' production of Richard III starring Kevin Spacey at the Old Vic.

"I do believe that an 18th Century comedy can be fresh, sexy and relevant for a modern audience," said Cadell, who has appeared in numerous stage productions including Alan Bennett's People and The Habit of Art at the National.

"Whilst this production will remain true to the 1775 setting, there will be some anachronistic modern touches. What is very exciting is to be doing this Style Comedy in the heart of Hackney."

The cast also includes Nick Le Prevost (Sir Anthony Absolute), Ian Batchelor (Captain Jack Absolut), Adam Jackson-Smith (Faulkland), Justin Edwards (Bob Acres), Adrian McLoughlin (Sir Lucius O'Trigger/ Thomas), Carl Prekopp (Fag/David), Jenny Rainsford (Lydia Languish), Justine Mitchell (Julia Melvill) and Hannah Stokely (Lucy).

The Rivals runs from 21 October (previews from 15 October) to 15 November 2014. Tickets are on sale now.