The Barn Theatre in Cirencester has announced the complete cast for its revival of Yes, Prime Minister, featuring Clive Hayward and Jay Villiers in leading roles. The production offers a fresh take on the classic political play by Antony Jay and Jonathan Lynn.

The Barn Theatre will stage Yes, Prime Minister from 28 August to 3 October, with a national press night set for 1 September. The play follows Prime Minister Jim Hacker as he contends with political and economic pressures, complicated by his dealings with civil servant Sir Humphrey Appleby.

Clive Hayward, known for his performance in Anne Boleyn: The Musical, will play Sir Humphrey Appleby, while Jay Villiers, who appeared in Local Hero, takes on the role of Jim Hacker. Supporting cast members include William Owen from EastEnders as Bernard Wooley and Ruth Gibson of Mountains as Claire Sutton.

Maurey Richards, who recently appeared in The Marilyn Conspiracy, plays Gordon, the American Ambassador and Cameraman, with Mark Stratton from Deals and Deceptions doubling as Jeremy Burnham and Simon Chester.

The Barn Theatre’s production is directed by Charlotte Westenra and features an all-female creative team. Anna Kelsey will design the set and costumes, Jodie Underwood is the lighting designer, and Elizabeth Purnell is responsible for sound.

Yes, Prime Minister, penned by Antony Jay and Jonathan Lynn, is a political comedy that explores government negotiations and bureaucratic clashes, themes that remain relevant in contemporary political discourse.

This revival continues the tradition of staging political theatre that combines wit and insight, reflecting ongoing interest in the mechanics of government and the relationship between elected officials and civil servants.