Orange Tree Theatre reveals full cast and creative team for Peter Shaffer’s Black Comedy

Cast and creative team have been confirmed for Peter Shaffer’s Black Comedy.

The revival will be directed by Caroline Steinbeis, and play at the Orange Tree Theatre from 16 May to 11 July. A press night is set for 27 May.

The piece follows young sculptor Brindsley Miller, who is on the brink of success and expecting a visit from an influential art collector, whose approval could secure his future.

Joining the previously announced Javier Marzan (Georg Bamberger) are Patricia Allison (Clea), Joe Bannister (Brindsley Miller), Jason Barnett (Colonel Melkett), Chris Chilton (Schuppanzigh), Leah Haile (Carol Melkett), Julia Hills (Miss Furnival) and Simon Manyonda (Harold Gorringe).

Completing the creative team are John Nicholson (physical comedy consultant), Simon Daw (set and costume design), Elliot Griggs (lighting design), Simon Slater (sound design) and Helena Palmer (casting director), with assistant director Freya Griffiths and costume supervisor Emma Kylmälä. Nicholson and Marzan have previously collaborated as part of Peepolykus.

Steinbeis said: “We have assembled a company that thrills me in every direction: an exhilarating blend of bold new voices, familiar Orange Tree favourites, and truly legendary comedy performers. Black Comedy is a dazzling farce, and I can’t wait to get started and shed light on these superb characters and uncover all their delicious contradictions. This cast brings precision, mischief, and heart in equal measure, and I know audiences are in for something truly special, surprising, and gloriously entertaining from start to finish.”

Tom Littler, artistic director at the Orange Tree Theatre, added: “Black Comedy is a peerless masterpiece of comic invention, and I’m delighted that Caroline Steinbeis has assembled such a superb company. It’s a particular pleasure to welcome Patricia Allison and Joe Bannister back to the OT after their recent triumphs in Twelfth Night and Hedda. For audiences looking for summer fun – look no further.”