Anton Lesser in The Pope: first look photos

Images have been released offering a first look at the upcoming production of The Pope at Royal and Derngate, Northampton.

The show stars Anton Lesser as Pope Benedict XVI alongside Nicholas Woodeson as Cardinal Bergoglio.

Directed by Royal and Derngate's artistic director James Dacre, The Pope is written by Anthony McCarten (Bohemian Rhapsody, The Theory of Everything). It follows Pope Benedict XVI as he decides to resign from his position – the first pope in 700 years to do so.

The play is the inspiration for a major motion picture of the same name that has been adapted by McCarten to premiere on Netflix later this year.

Award-winning composer Anne Dudley (American History X, Poldark) will create original music for The Pope, and the production will be designed by Jonathan Fensom (Farinelli and the King) with lighting by Charles Balfour (Mojo).