National Theatre releases rehearsal photos of Sandra Oh and the cast of The Misanthrope

The National Theatre has revealed rehearsal photos for the upcoming production of The Misanthrope.

The play is adapted by Martin Crimp, whose recent work includes Cyrano de Bergerac, and directed by Indhu Rubasingham. Written in contemporary verse, the adaptation reworks Molière’s play to examine private relationships and public debate in a modern context, with the central figure of Alceste reimagined – in this version, the story centres on Alice, a novelist who rejects what she sees as empty expressions of kindness and respect.

As previously reported, Golden Globe winner Sandra Oh will make her National Theatre debut in the production, appearing alongside Paul Chahidi and Abigail Cruttenden.

They will be joined by Imogen Elliott as Esmée, Rina Fatania as Indira, Freddie MacBruce as Allen, Tom Mison as Stefan and Jemima Rooper as Elaine. Young performers include Arthur Blanc and Teddy Holton-Frances as Benjamin and Francesca Fullilove and Poppy Townsend White as Madeleine.

The company is completed by Niamh James as understudy Esmée/Allen, Amira Matthews as understudy Claire/Indira/Elaine, Scott Sparrow as understudy Stefan, John Vernon as understudy John and Gabby Wong as understudy Alice.

The creative team includes set and costume designer Robert Jones, lighting designer Tim Lutkin, composer Anna Meredith, sound designer Alexander Caplen, movement director Lucy Hind, voice coach Jeannette Nelson, associate director Gitika Buttoo and associate set and costume designer Ethan Cheek. Casting is by Alastair Coomer and Martin Poile.

The Misanthrope will run in the National’s Lyttelton theatre from 16 June to 1 August, with a press night set for 23 June.