Casting has been announced for Lanny, a new stage adaptation of Max Porter’s novel, set to premiere at Bristol Old Vic in October 2026 as part of the venue’s 260th anniversary celebrations.

The world premiere of Lanny will run at Bristol Old Vic from 16 October to 7 November 2026, with a press night scheduled for 22 October. The play, adapted by Bea Roberts and directed by Bristol Old Vic artistic director Nancy Medina, is being presented in association with English Touring Theatre.

Set in a village near Bristol, the story follows a family who have recently moved from the city and whose young son attracts the attention of Dead Papa Toothwort, a mythical figure from the woods. The title role of Lanny will be shared by Atlas Johnson-Dutfield and Lucian Thomas, both making their professional stage debuts.

The cast includes Hanora Kamen as Jolie, Raj Bajaj as Robert, and Richard Cant as Pete. Rupert Holliday Evans plays The Lecturer and other roles, while Amanda Lawrence appears as Peggy and other characters. Liam Bergin and Rose Wardlaw will also take on multiple parts.

Max Porter’s 2019 novel Lanny was longlisted for the Booker Prize. This new adaptation features set and costume design by Rebecca Jane Wood, composition and musical direction from Dom Coyote, movement direction by Dan Canham, and lighting design by Zeynep Kepekli.

Sound design is created by Elena Peña and Dave Price. The creative team also includes assistant director Maddie Wakeling, assistant movement director Divija Mellaly, costume supervisor Bristol Costume Services, casting director Arthur Carrington, child casting director Ruby Gilmour, dramatherapist Alice Nicholas, and head chaperone Julian Arney.

This production marks an important collaboration between Bristol Old Vic and English Touring Theatre during a milestone anniversary, bringing contemporary British literature to the stage in a rural setting close to the venue’s home city.