The Orange Tree Theatre has revealed the full cast for its upcoming revival of T.S. Eliot’s Murder in the Cathedral, starring David Suchet as Thomas Becket. The production will open in Richmond’s St John the Divine Church before transferring to Theatre Royal Bath.

David Suchet will headline the Orange Tree Theatre’s revival of Murder in the Cathedral, playing the role of Thomas Becket. The site-specific production is directed by Tom Littler alongside the theatre’s community director, Francesca Ellis. It will premiere at Richmond’s St John the Divine Church on 19 October, with previews starting on 12 October, and run until 7 November before moving to Theatre Royal Bath from 10 to 21 November.

Joining Suchet in the cast are Mensah Bediako as Third Priest, Ben Caplan as Second Tempter and Second Knight, Paul Hickey as Second Priest, Jyuddah Jaymes as First Tempter and First Knight, Michael Lyle as First Priest, Nick Sampson as Third Tempter and Third Knight, Jad Sayegh as Messenger, and David Yelland as Fourth Tempter and Fourth Knight. The chorus in Richmond will be led by Sally Cheng, Sonya Cullingford, Chyna-Rose Frederick, and Rebecca Thorn, who will be joined by additional members for the Bath run.

For the Richmond performances, the Women of Canterbury will be played by a community ensemble, reflecting the Orange Tree’s ongoing commitment to engaging with local communities. Artistic director Tom Littler described the production as “a truly special” one and highlighted the urgency of Eliot’s themes of conscience and power today.

The creative team features set designer Rob Jones, costume designer Cat Fuller, lighting designer Peter Mumford, sound designer and associate music director Max Pappenheim, and music director Michael Waldron. Orlando Gough composes the music, supported by casting director Matilda James and movement director Lizzi Kew Ross.

Additional production roles include assistant director Flora Emily Thomson, associate costume designer Zoë Thomas-Webb, and catering assistant Emily Chase. Artwork for the show is by Bob King.

The site-specific nature of the production in a church setting aims to enhance the spiritual and historical dimensions of Eliot’s verse drama, underscoring its relevance in contemporary theatre. The combination of professional cast and community participation continues the Orange Tree’s distinctive approach to theatre-making.