Legendary singer-songwriter Joan Armatrading will compose original music for Phyllida Lloyd’s upcoming production of The Tempest.
The three times Grammy-nominated British artist has garnered numerous accolades which include top 10 albums and singles (Love And Affection, Willow, Drop The Pilot), and a number one debut on the Billboard Blues chart in 2007 (a first for a female artist from the UK). She has made VH1’s list of the 100 Most Influential Women In Rock, been nominated for Brit Awards, given a command performance for Nelson Mandela on his 70th birthday at Wembley Stadium, and has received numerous Honorary Degrees.
Her songs will be set to Shakespeare’s words in the new all-female production, as part of the Donmar Shakespeare Trilogy at King’s Cross, in a new, purpose-built, temporary venue. They will also feature as a digital album released by 429 Records, which can now be downloaded from iTunes.
The Tempest marks the reunion of director Phyllida Lloyd with actor Harriet Walter, who will play Prospero. The full cast includes Jade Anouka, Sheila Atim, Jackie Clune, Shiloh Coke, Karen Dunbar, Clare Dunne, Leah Harvey, Zainab Hasan, Jennifer Joseph, Martina Laird, Sophie Stanton and Carolina Valdés.
The Shakespeare Donmar trilogy also includes Julius Caesar and Henry IV, with performances beginning on 23 September. Those aged 25 or under can register for the Young+Free scheme, which offers a number of free tickets to young people.