Tirso de Molina’s 1635 play Damned By Despair is brought to life in Frank McGuinness’ new version starring Bertie Carvel.

Directed by Bijan Sheibani, Damned By Despair is a fast-paced adventure story telling the tale of hermit Paulo, who, obsessed by his own salvation, devotes himself to 10 years of prayerful penance. When his faith wavers, the ever-watchful Devil seizes the moment to convince him that he shares the fate of Enrico, a notorious Neapolitan gangster destined for damnation. Swearing vengeance, Paulo lashes out against God and assembles a band of rival outlaws, though all the while redemption hovers over the two men, perhaps within reach.

Carvel, who is best known for his Olivier Award-winning performance as the fearsome Miss Trunchball in the RSC’s Matilda The Musical, is joined in the production by Rory Keenan, Amanda Lawrence and Sebastian Armesto, whose previous appearances at the National includes A Woman Killed With Kindness.

As an Associate Director at the National Theatre, Sheibani has previously directed The Kitchen, Our Class, Greenland and the US touring production of War Horse.