Devil Cancels Performance, Postpones Press Night

Tonight’s performance (7 October 2008) of Jacobean revenge tragedy The White Devil at the Menier Chocolate Factory has been cancelled due to a cast injury (See News, 9 Sep 2008). Actress Golda Rosheuvel has hurt her leg after being knocked off her bicycle. A replacement is now being secured.

The production, directed by Jonathan Munby, has been in preview since 2 October and was due to open to critics tomorrow (8 October 2008). The press night has now been delayed until Thursday to allow for extra rehearsal time, though tomorrow evening’s performance will go ahead. The season continues until 15 November.

In Webster’s bloody 1612 play, based on a real-life story, the Duke of Brachiano’s adulterous affair with Vittoria, the daughter of a noble but poor family, scandalises the court and sparks off a series of murders, attacks and counter-attacks. Webster also authored The Duchess of Malfi.

Rosheuvel was playing the supporting role of Zanche, a Moor, servant to Vittoria. The role will now be played by Karen Bryson, who begins rehearsals tonight.

Claire Price stars as Vittoria, opposite Darrell D’Silva as Brachiano, with Aidan McArdle as Flamenio. The cast also includes Ross Armstrong, Dylan Charles, Claire Cox, John Dougall, Christopher Godwin, Louis Hilyer, Nitzan Sharron and Sandra Voe. The White Devil is designed by Philip Witcomb, with lighting by Hartley TA Kemp, movement by Georgina Lamb, and musical direction by Dominic Haslam.

Theatregoers who booked for this evening’s performance of The White Devil should contact the Menier Chocolate Factory box office on 020 7907 7060 for exchanges or refunds.

– by Terri Paddock