Bill Pullman will make his Royal Shakespeare Company debut in a new version of Anton Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard, running at Stratford-upon-Avon’s Swan Theatre this summer. The production also stars Kenneth Branagh and Helen Hunt, directed by RSC co-artistic director Tamara Harvey.

Bill Pullman is set to take on the role of Gaev in the RSC’s upcoming production of The Cherry Orchard at the Swan Theatre from 10 July to 29 August. He will appear opposite Kenneth Branagh and Helen Hunt, marking his first appearance with the company.

The play is a new adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s final work by playwright Laura Wade. Tamara Harvey, the RSC’s co-artistic director, directs the production, with Anna Fleischle designing sets and costumes and Charlotte Sutton casting.

Pullman, known for films such as Spaceballs, Independence Day, and While You Were Sleeping, has previously performed on the London stage in All My Sons at the Old Vic and Mad House in the West End. His Broadway appearances include Edward Albee’s The Goat, or Who Is Sylvia?.

Commenting on joining the cast, Pullman said he felt “thankful to be part of this company alongside Ken and Helen” and described the production as promising “an experience of exceptional power”. He expressed enthusiasm ahead of rehearsals beginning.

The Cherry Orchard’s staging at the Swan Theatre adds to the RSC’s track record of revisiting classic plays with contemporary perspectives and creative new voices. With a seasoned cast and creative team, this production is poised to offer a fresh take on Chekhov’s exploration of change and loss.