Mark Rylance to star in world premiere of Tartuffe (Remixed)

Mark Rylance will lead a new adaptation of Tartuffe.

Written and directed by Darren Raymond, Tartuffe (Remixed) is a co-production between Marylebone Theatre, Patrick Myles and David Luff and presented in partnership with Intermission Ensemble.

It is billed as a contemporary production where the story has been relocated to an African-Caribbean family household.

Rylance will reunite with set and costume designer ULTZ following collaborations on Jerusalem and Much Ado About Nothing. The award-winning actor will share the stage with Intermission Ensemble, the graduates of Intermission Youth, the drama charity for which he has long served as a trustee and advocate.

Tartuffe (Remixed) will run at the Marylebone Theatre from this autumn, with exact dates to be revealed alongside ticketing information, though sign-ups are open now. The full cast and creative team are to be announced.

Artistic director of Marylebone Theatre Alexander J Gifford said: “For many years, Darren has been creating amazing, ‘remixed’ versions of Shakespeare’s plays for Intermission Youth. With Mark, he has turned his hand to Molière and the result is a brilliantly funny, surprisingly poignant new play. Mark was born to play Tartuffe and I have no doubt that he will deliver another iconic stage performance…”

Raymond added: ”The production is a massive nod to the next generation. Mark will be starring alongside some of Intermission Youth’s alumni. This isn’t just a performance; it’s a tangible bridge between a stalwart of the stage and the young talent he has spent years mentoring. I am thrilled to see our company’s signature style come to life, where original verse meets the raw, rhythmic tapestry of cultural sounds that define our modern society.”

Rylance concluded: “Since 2009, I’ve adored Darren Raymond’s productions of Shakespeare, created for his Intermission Youth theatre company. So, I’m very excited to work with him directing Intermission Ensemble, a professional company, remixing Moliere’s satirical masterpiece.

“Darren’s genius for language and humour guarantees this will be a Tartuffe like no other. Our early rehearsals have been hilarious. The mix of a corrupt English missionary in a contemporary African Caribbean family culture is bringing out the authentic cadence and revolutionary meaning of this classic play.”