Gemma Arterton to star in West End transfer of Nell Gwynn

A West End transfer of the Globe's production of Nell Gwynn has been announced, with Gemma Arterton taking the title role of Nell.

Arterton was most recently seen as Rita O’Grady in Made in Dagenham (Adelphi Theatre) for which she won the Evening Standard best newcomer in a musical Award. Her other acting credits include The Duchess of Malfi, The Master Builder and Quantum of Solace.

Jessica Swale's play originally ran at Shakespeare's Globe as part of Dominic Dromgoole's final summer season. The production now transfers to the Apollo Theatre for a strictly limited season from 12 February 2016.

Directed by Christopher Luscombe, Nell Gwynn is set in 1660 after the restoration of Charles II to the throne. Billed is an "effervescent celebration of life in the theatre", it charts the rise of Gwynn from her roots in Coal Yard Alley to her success as Britain's most celebrated actress and the king's consort.

Further casting is yet to be announced.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw was nominated for best actress at the Evening Standard Awards for her role in the original production. She will not be joining the West End transfer.

You can read Mark Valencia's review of the original production here.