Mescal and Stormzy set for National Theatre shows

Paul Mescal will make his National Theatre debut in 2027, starring in "Death of a Salesman" as Biff Loman and "A Whistle in the Dark. " This dual casting is part of a broader initiative to return to a repertory model, allowing multiple shows to be staged concurrently. Artistic director Indhu Rubasingham, appointed in December 2023, announced the upcoming productions, which also feature notable actors like Monica Barbaro and Nicola Coughlan. The two plays share themes of dysfunctional family dynamics and societal expectations, despite differing cultural contexts. Additionally, Rubasingham's collaboration with rap artist Stormzy promises an innovative project yet to be detailed.

Other productions include a revival of "Les Liaisons Dangereuses" and an adaptation of "The Jungle Book" utilizing puppetry. This programming shift reflects the National Theatre's commitment to diverse storytelling and fresh interpretations of classic works. The venue aims to engage a broader audience while celebrating its artistic heritage.