Introduction to the National Theater’s New Productions
The National Theater has announced its new productions for 2027, featuring a star-studded lineup of actors, including Paul Mescal, Monica Barbaro, and Nicola Coughlan. The theater’s new artistic director, Indhu Rubasingham, has revealed an exciting program of plays and musicals that promise to thrill audiences.
Paul Mescal’s Double Debut
Paul Mescal, the star of Normal People and Gladiator II, will make his National Theater debut in not one, but two productions: Death of a Salesman and A Whistle in the Dark. These classic 20th-century plays will be performed in repertoire, allowing audiences to see both shows with the same cast. Mescal will play the role of Biff Loman in Death of a Salesman, while the role of his father, Willy, has yet to be announced.
Other Stars Joining the National Theater
Other notable actors joining the National Theater include Monica Barbaro, recently nominated for an Oscar for her role in A Complete Unknown, and Nicola Coughlan, known for her role in Bridgerton. They will be appearing in new productions, including The Playboy of the Western World, alongside Siobhán McSweeney and Éanna Hardwicke. Aidan Turner, star of Poldark, will also make his National Theater debut in a new production.
Collaboration with Stormzy
The National Theater has also announced a collaboration with rap artist Stormzy, who will be working on a new production with the theater. Although details are scarce, Rubasingham has promised that the project will be "an average show that goes beyond theater." Stormzy has expressed his excitement about the project, stating that he has always been drawn to theater and is looking forward to working with Rubasingham.
New Productions and Adaptations
The National Theater has announced a range of new productions and adaptations, including a new musical based on the true story of the 1984 miners’ strike, Pride. Other productions include a retelling of the ancient Greek story Bacchae, a new adaptation of The Jungle Book, and a return of the popular production Ballet Shoes. Shakespeare’s Hamlet will also be performed, starring Pis Hiran Abeysekera.
The Future of the National Theater
Indhu Rubasingham, the new artistic director of the National Theater, has promised that the theater will continue to tell "courageous stories in a big way, crossing continents, moving hearts, and opening minds." She has also expressed her desire to attract new audiences to the theater, while still catering to its loyal fan base. With its exciting new program of productions, the National Theater is set to thrive under Rubasingham’s leadership.
About Indhu Rubasingham
Born in Sheffield with Sri-Lankan heritage, Indhu Rubasingham is the seventh artistic director of the National Theater since its founding in 1963 by Sir Laurence Olivier. She is the first woman to hold the position and has promised to bring a new era of creativity and innovation to the theater. With her exciting new program of productions, Rubasingham is set to make her mark on the National Theater and the world of theater as a whole.
