Martin Freeman and Sarah Lancashire to star in new James Graham play

The Michael Grandage Company and Headlong have joined forces to present the world premiere of James Graham's new political comedy, Labour of Love, which will open at the Noel Coward Theatre in September.

The piece will star Martin Freeman and Sarah Lancashire as Labour MPs with differing priorities. Set away from Westminster and in the traditional northern heartlands of the party, the play is a 'clash of philosophy, culture and class against the backdrop of the Labour Party over 25 years'.

Freeman was last seen on stage in Jamie Lloyd's production of Richard III at Trafalgar Studios. His screen credits include Love Actually, Nativity and The Hobbit.

Lancashire is best known for playing Raquel in Coronation Street and, more recently, Catherine in Happy Valley. Her West End credits include Blood Brothers and Betty Blue Eyes.

Labour of Love reunites Graham with director Jeremy Herrin following their recent collaboration on This House. Graham's other work includes Privacy, The Angry Brigade and Finding Neverland.

Echoing previous Michael Grandage Company seasons at the theatre, there will be 20,000 tickets available at £10. Today Grandage said: "This wonderful new play by James Graham is the start of a body of work that MGC will be producing over the next two years as we continue our commitment to delivering quality theatre at affordable prices in the West End.

"For this first production, I am delighted Jeremy Herrin and Headlong, a company I have long admired, are joining us."

Labour of Love runs at the Noel Coward Theatre from 25 September to 2 December, with previews from 15 September.