Paul Mescal, Stormzy and the return of rep – National Theatre boss reveals her risky debut season
With star names, a Hamlet in shades, orgiastic murder and a miners’ strike musical, Indhu Rubasingham promises something for all. But can she attract newcomers while keeping diehards happy? And is she having sleepless nights?Indhu Rubasingham is starting her tenure at the National Theatre with a blast of bloody anarchy – of the ancient Greek variety. The opening play in her inaugural programme is a part verse, part spoken-word reworking of The Bacchae, which features orgiastic delirium and violent frenzy as a group of women tear a king to bits.Rubasingham will direct Bacchae (without its definite article) herself. This reimagining of the Euripides drama is the work of first-time playwright Nima Taleghani, better known as an actor (he featured in Jamie Lloyd’s rapping Cyrano). There is a certain anarchic spirit to this kicking-off point: Rubasingham is putting a debut writer’s play on the NT’s biggest stage, the Olivier, which has never before showcased a first work. Continue reading...
With star names, a Hamlet in shades, orgiastic murder and a miners’ strike musical, Indhu Rubasingham promises something for all. But can she attract newcomers while keeping diehards happy? And is she having sleepless nights?
Indhu Rubasingham is starting her tenure at the National Theatre with a blast of bloody anarchy – of the ancient Greek variety. The opening play in her inaugural programme is a part verse, part spoken-word reworking of The Bacchae, which features orgiastic delirium and violent frenzy as a group of women tear a king to bits.
Rubasingham will direct Bacchae (without its definite article) herself. This reimagining of the Euripides drama is the work of first-time playwright Nima Taleghani, better known as an actor (he featured in Jamie Lloyd’s rapping Cyrano). There is a certain anarchic spirit to this kicking-off point: Rubasingham is putting a debut writer’s play on the NT’s biggest stage, the Olivier, which has never before showcased a first work. Continue reading...
