A host of West End musical theatre regulars, led by former Avenue Q star Julie Atherton, will appear in the world premiere of a new musical adaptation of Émile Zola’s Thérèse Raquin.
The production, with music by Craig Adams and book and lyrics by Nona Shepphard, will begin its run at the Finborough Theatre from 25 March.
The show reunites Atherton, who has also starred in Mamma Mia!, Ordinary Days and Fame in the West End, with composer Adams. The actress appeared in his musical Lift at the Soho Theatre in 2013.
Zola’s Thérèse Raquin is set in 19th century Paris, where the title character is trapped in a loveless marriage to her sickly cousin. Living with her aunt and working at her shop, the monotony of her life is only broken by Thursday domino games. When, one week, her husband brings along an old friend, it sparks a powerful passion that sees inhibitions and loyalties thrown to the wind.
Atherton is joined in the cast by Olivier Award nominee Tara Hugo (Threepenny Opera, Donmar Warehouse) as her aunt, Jeremy Legat (Wicked) as her husband and Ben Lewis (Candide, Menier Chocolate Factory) as the man who sparks a life-altering change. Lila Clements, Claire Greenway, Ellie Kirk, Gary Tushaw, Verity Quade and Matt Wilman also star.