Orange Tree Theatre unveils full cast for Peter Shaffer’s Black Comedy
The Orange Tree Theatre has announced the complete cast and creative team for its upcoming revival of Peter Shaffer’s Black Comedy, set to run from 16 May to 11 July. The production promises a fresh take on the farce under the direction of Caroline Steinbeis.
The revival of Black Comedy, which follows young sculptor Brindsley Miller facing a pivotal moment with a potential art collector’s visit, will open with a press night on 27 May at the Richmond venue. Joe Bannister takes the lead role of Brindsley Miller, joined by Patricia Allison as Clea and Javier Marzan as Georg Bamberger, the latter having been previously announced.
Other cast members include Jason Barnett as Colonel Melkett, Chris Chilton as Schuppanzigh, Leah Haile as Carol Melkett, Julia Hills as Miss Furnival, and Simon Manyonda as Harold Gorringe. Caroline Steinbeis directs, supported by a creative team featuring John Nicholson as physical comedy consultant, Simon Daw in charge of set and costume design, Elliot Griggs on lighting, and Simon Slater overseeing sound.
Nicholson and Marzan bring prior collaboration experience through their work with the Peepolykus company. Assistant director Freya Griffiths and costume supervisor Emma Kylmälä complete the production’s behind-the-scenes team, along with casting director Helena Palmer.
Steinbeis highlighted the blend of emerging and established talent in the cast, describing Black Comedy as “a dazzling farce” with “precision, mischief, and heart.” She expressed excitement about exploring the characters’ contradictions and delivering an entertaining experience.
Tom Littler, the Orange Tree’s artistic director, praised Black Comedy as a “peerless masterpiece of comic invention” and welcomed Allison and Bannister back to the theatre following their recent performances in Twelfth Night and Hedda. He positioned the play as an ideal choice for summer theatre audiences seeking enjoyment.
The production is a continuation of the Orange Tree’s commitment to reviving classic and well-loved plays with fresh energy, maintaining its reputation for intimate and inventive theatre experiences.
