What's Happening?
The Old Vic theater has unveiled the first four productions for Rupert Goold's inaugural season as Artistic Director. The season will commence with Damian Lewis starring as Henry V in a new production of Shakespeare's history play from January 26 to March
27. Following this, Milly Alcock will lead 'Julie,' a contemporary adaptation of August Strindberg's 'Miss Julie,' running from April 10 to May 29. From June 15 to August 21, Goold himself will direct Stephen Sondheim and John Weidman's Tony Award-winning musical 'Assassins,' a satirical piece about individuals who attempted to assassinate U.S. Presidents. The season concludes with Arinzé Kene performing in 'Kohlhaas,' a one-man show based on Heinrich von Kleist's novella, from August 27 to September 4. Goold expressed his excitement for a season that blends classical theater, European repertoire, and musical revivals, aiming to build on the Old Vic's legacy of groundbreaking and accessible productions.
Why It's Important?
The announcement of Rupert Goold's first season at the Old Vic is significant for the theater world, particularly given the inclusion of 'Assassins,' a musical directly addressing attempts on the lives of U.S. Presidents. This production could spark discussions on American history, political violence, and the motivations behind such acts, potentially resonating with U.S. audiences and critics. The Old Vic's commitment to both classical and contemporary works, alongside its new ticketing scheme for under-30s and an artistic partnership with Internationaal Theater Amsterdam, indicates a strategic effort to broaden its appeal and foster international collaboration. This approach could influence other theaters in the U.S. and globally to explore similar models for audience engagement and artistic exchange, while the specific themes of 'Assassins' offer a unique lens through which to examine U.S. political narratives.
What's Next?
The Old Vic's inaugural season under Rupert Goold is set to begin in January with 'Henry V.' The production of 'Assassins' will run from June 15 to August 21, 2027, and is likely to attract considerable attention due to its provocative subject matter. Further creative team announcements are expected for 'Assassins.' The theater also plans to announce its first season in the Greene Studio for Old Vic New Directors in early 2027, featuring Sara Aniqah Malik, Yasmin Hafesji, and Roberta Zuric. The ongoing artistic partnership with Internationaal Theater Amsterdam will involve co-producing new work and facilitating the exchange of artists and practitioners, suggesting future international collaborations and productions. The 'Old Vic New Rush' ticketing scheme will offer front-row tickets for £20 for the first five previews of main house shows, aiming to make theater more accessible to younger audiences.
Beyond the Headlines
The inclusion of 'Assassins' in Rupert Goold's first season at the Old Vic carries deeper implications beyond mere theatrical programming. The musical, which explores the lives of individuals who attempted to assassinate U.S. Presidents, delves into complex themes of American identity, the pursuit of the American Dream, and the psychological underpinnings of political extremism. In a contemporary context, this production could serve as a powerful commentary on current political divisions and the rise of extremist ideologies, prompting audiences to reflect on historical patterns of discontent and violence. The Old Vic's decision to stage such a politically charged work highlights the role of theater as a platform for social critique and historical examination, potentially fostering dialogue on sensitive topics that extend far beyond the stage and into broader societal conversations about democracy and dissent.
