In a historic collision of alternative rock and classical theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) has announced that Placebo will compose the original score for its upcoming production of Bertolt Brecht’s The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui.
The production, which marks the band’s first major theatre collaboration, stars double Olivier Award-winner Mark Gatiss as the titular gangster. Directed by Seán Linnen in a new version by Stephen Sharkey, the play will run at the Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, from 11 April to 30 May 2026.
A Provocative Sonic Backdrop
The collaboration arrives as Placebo celebrates the 30th anniversary of their seminal debut album. Known for their dark, subversive sound and over 14 million records sold, Brian Molko and Stefan Olsdal are tasked with soundtracking Brecht’s "gangster spectacle"—a blistering 1941 satire on Adolf Hitler’s rise to power.
"Thematically, this cautionary tale from history feels more urgent and prescient than ever," said Molko and Olsdal. "We tried to connect with the psychology of the outsider, taking inspiration from themes of power, alienation, and moral decay."
A Chilling Warning for Modern Times
Set in the corrupt back alleys of Chicago during the Great Depression, the play follows Ui, a small-time crook who exploits economic hardship and fear to seize absolute power. Director Seán Linnen emphasized that the far-right themes are "very chilling" in today’s political climate.
"Music is an essential part of Brecht’s plays," Linnen noted. "Having Brian and Stefan’s darkly seductive score played live on stage is going to be exhilarating."
Performance and Ticket Information
This production marks the first time the RSC has ever staged this particular Brecht masterpiece. Fans of both the band and the "Sherlock" star can expect a production that is as much a rock spectacle as it is a political interrogation.
Venue: Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon
Dates: 11 April – 30 May 2026
Press Night: Tuesday 21 April
