The National Theatre has announced the complete casting for "Bacchae," the highly anticipated new play by Nima Taleghani (known from Heartstopper), marking a significant milestone as the first debut play to be staged in the iconic Olivier Theatre. Directed by Indhu Rubasingham in her inaugural production as the National Theatre’s new Director, "Bacchae" promises to ignite a new chapter for the institution with its anarchic energy, spoken word, and rhyme.
A Modern Retelling with Star Power
This modern retelling of Euripides' ancient Greek tragedy will run from September 13 to November 1, 2025, in the Olivier Theatre. The powerhouse cast includes James McArdle (Angels in America), Clare Perkins (The Wife of Willesden), Ukweli Roach (Wolf), and Sharon Small (Nye). They are joined by a talented ensemble featuring Melanie-Joyce Bermudez, Ebony Clarke, Natasha Gooden, Sam Jenkins-Shaw, Kate Ivory Jordan, Arethajay McEwen, Fi Silverthorn, Simon Startin, Jessey Stol, Roman Asde, Elèna Gyasi, Reuben Johnson, Tyreke Leslie, Natasha Magigi, Ellie McKay, Ellie-May Sheridan, Anna Russell-Martin, and Amanda Wilkin.
Rubasingham's Vision for a New Era
Indhu Rubasingham expressed her excitement for her first show at the helm: "I can’t wait to get into the rehearsal room and create my first show as Director of the National Theatre, beginning this new chapter. Nima’s energetic retelling of Euripides’ ancient tragedy is an exhilarating debut play, that will fill the amphitheatre of the Olivier with spoken word and rhyme. Bacchae will be a riot of words, music and movement."
The production boasts a stellar creative team, with set and costume design by Robert Jones, choreography by Kate Prince, and an original score by DJ Walde. Rubasingham highlighted the play's spirit of reinvention, emphasizing how it "telling ancient stories with a modern voice has long been a part of the National Theatre."
Chaos and Catharsis in Thebes
"Bacchae" explores themes of chaos and control as Dionysos, the god of rhyme, wine, and a good time, seeks to bring down his cousin King Pentheus. Meanwhile, the titular Bacchae – described as "stage-storming powerhouses" – maraud in the mountains, ready to cause mayhem in Thebes. The narrative promises a fierce exploration of power, identity, and the wild side of human nature.
Tickets for "Bacchae" are available now from £20 via the National Theatre website, with a press performance scheduled for Wednesday, September 24, 2025. This production marks a bold and exciting start to Rubasingham's directorship, promising a vibrant and contemporary theatrical experience.
