The National Theatre has announced full casting for the world premiere of London Tide, as the company begins rehearsals. Based on Charles Dickens’ final completed novel, Our Mutual Friend, London Tide is directed by Ian Rickson (Translations), adapted by Ben Power (The Lehman Trilogy), with original songs throughout by acclaimed singer-songwriter PJ Harvey and Ben Power. This romantic and propulsive thriller is a hymn to London and the river that runs through it.
Previously announced cast includes Brandon Grace as Charley Hexam, Scott Karim as Bradley Headstone, Bella Maclean as Bella Wilfer, Tom Mothersdale as John Rokesmith, Ami Tredrea as Lizzie Hexam and Peter Wight as Noddy Boffin.
They are joined by Beth Alsbury as Lavinia Wilfer, Joe Armstrong as Roger Riderhood, Crystal Condie as Miss Potterson, Laura Cubitt as Nancy, Miya James in the Ensemble, Stephen Kennedy as Reg Wilfer, Joshua Lacey as Inspector Bucket, Penny Layden as Mary Wilfer, Eric Mok as understudy Charlie Hexam, Liam Prince-Donnelly in the Ensemble, Georgia Silver as understudy Bella Wilfer, Ellie-May Sheridan as Jenny Wren, Jonathan Dryden Taylor as Mr Cleaver, John Vernon as understudy Reg Wilfer/Noddy Boffin/Mortimer Lightwood, Jamael Westman as Eugene Wrayburn, Jake Wood as Gaffer Hexam and Rufus Wright as Mortimer Lightwood.
A storm rages and, in the darkest part of the night, a body is pulled from the swirling Thames. Across the city, two young women confront an uncertain future. In Limehouse, Lizzie Hexam struggles to break free of the river and its dark secrets. On the other side of town, Bella Wilfer mourns a lost marriage. The appearance of the mysterious John Rokesmith has the potential to change their lives for ever. Will they sink or swim?
Directed by Ian Rickson, the set and costume designer is Bunny Christie, lighting designer Jack Knowles, music director Ian Ross, co-sound designers Tingying Dong and Christopher Shutt, movement director Anna Morrissey, video designer Hayley Egan, fight director Terry King, casting director Bryony Jarvis-Taylor, voice and dialect coach Simon Money, associate set designer Verity Sadler and staff director Yasmin Hafesji.
London Tide is playing in the Lyttelton theatre from 10 April until 22 June, with press night on 17 April.
Tickets are available from £20 and are on sale now via the National Theatre website. For further information, including details about assisted performances, please visit nationaltheatre.org.uk.
