Full casting has been announced for the West End transfer of Farinelli And The King, which will see Mark Rylance reprise his role as the eponymous monarch this September.
The Shakespeare’s Globe production will bring the intimate candlelit atmosphere and live music, which made the show such a success at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, to the Duke of York’s Theatre from 14 September to 5 December.
Alongside Rylance as King Philippe V, Iestyn Davies will reprise his singing role as Farinelli, the world famous castrato who traded fame and fortune in Europe’s opera houses for a life of servitude in the royal court. Davies will share the vocal part with Rupert Enticknap, the only newcomer to the West End cast.
All five of the remaining original Globe cast will make the trip across the river to appear in the transfer of the critically acclaimed production.
Those performers comprise Sam Crane (1984, West End), in the acting role of Farinelli, Huss Garbiya (A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Globe), Melody Grove (Much Ado About Nothing, Old Vic), Colin Hurley (Twelfth Night/Richard III, Globe) and Edward Peel (‘Tis Pity She’s A Whore, Sam Wanamaker Playhouse).
Set in 18th century Spain, Claire Van Kampen’s enchanting play explores the dynamics between Farinelli and the royal couple, bringing to the life the mesmerising tale with many of the exquisite arias sung by the opera star during the 1730s.
Directed by John Dove, Farinelli And The King adds to what is becoming an eclectic season of West End transfers for the Duke of York’s Theatre. The venue, which is currently housing Olivier Award nominated thriller The Nether, will welcome the Theatre Royal Bath production of Hay Fever prior to the arrival of the Shakespeare’s Globe hit.