Patricia Highsmith's chilling masterpiece of psychological suspense, 'The Talented Mr. Ripley', is set to embark on its first-ever UK tour, opening at the Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, on September 4, 2025. This highly anticipated stage adaptation arrives just in time to mark the 70th anniversary of the novel's original publication, promising a thrilling theatrical experience for audiences across the country.
Award-winning producers Jack Maple and Thomas Hopkins are behind this new production by The Faction, renowned for their critically acclaimed works. The adaptation and direction are helmed by Mark Leipacher, known for his incisive takes on classics such as 'Mary Stuart' and 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. Leipacher’s vision aims to bring the intricate web of deception and desire to vivid life on stage, providing a fresh perspective on a story that has captivated readers and viewers for decades.
For those unfamiliar with the story, 'The Talented Mr. Ripley' introduces Tom Ripley, a seemingly innocuous individual whose life takes a dark turn when he's presented with an opportunity to travel to Italy. His mission: to persuade the wealthy and carefree Dickie Greenleaf to return home. However, as Tom becomes increasingly enmeshed in Dickie's opulent world, his fascination spirals into a dangerous obsession, leading to a chilling journey through lies, identity theft, and ultimately, murder. The play asks a compelling question: "How far would you go to be someone else?"
Set against the sun-drenched, alluring backdrop of 1950s Italy, this stage adaptation promises razor-sharp dialogue, intense psychological depth, and a chillingly charismatic antihero that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The creative team boasts impressive talent, including Holly Piggott (set and costume design), Zeynep Kepekli (lighting design), and Max Pappenheim (sound design), ensuring a visually and acoustically rich experience. Casting for the pivotal roles, including Tom Ripley himself, is yet to be announced, adding to the growing excitement surrounding this tour.
Following its Cheltenham premiere, 'The Talented Mr. Ripley' will visit Edinburgh's Festival Theatre, Birmingham Rep, New Victoria Theatre in Woking, Oxford Playhouse, Theatre Royal Brighton, Bristol Old Vic, and Richmond Theatre throughout September, October, and November 2025, with further dates for 2026 to be unveiled. This production is set to be a highlight of the 2025 theatrical calendar, offering a compelling journey into the mind of one of literature's most enigmatic characters.
