SANDRA OH MAKES NATIONAL THEATRE DEBUT IN MARTIN CRIMP’S NEW THE MISANTHROPE — FULL CAST CONFIRMED
The National Theatre has announced the full company joining Sandra Oh in a new version of The Misanthrope, directed by Indhu Rubasingham, with a contemporary adaptation by Martin Crimp.
Oh, making her National Theatre debut, plays Alice — a reworking of Molière’s Alceste — in a production that reframes the 17th-century satire through modern language and contemporary cultural tension. The play runs at the Lyttelton Theatre from 16 June to 1 August 2026.
The newly announced cast includes Paul Chahidi as John, Abigail Cruttenden as Claire, Imogen Elliott as Esmée, Rina Fatania as Indira, Freddie MacBruce as Allen, Tom Mison as Stefan, and Jemima Rooper as Elaine. Younger performers Arthur Blanc, Teddy Holton-Frances, Francesca Fullilove and Poppy Townsend White complete the onstage company, with an understudy ensemble also confirmed.
Crimp’s adaptation keeps the core idea of Molière’s original — a figure who refuses social politeness in favour of blunt honesty — but shifts the focus onto a contemporary writer whose refusal to conform begins to isolate her both professionally and personally.
The story follows Alice, a novelist whose rejection of “polite” consensus quickly becomes socially and emotionally costly as colleagues withdraw and relationships fracture.
The production reunites Rubasingham with a creative team including set and costume designer Robert Jones, lighting designer Tim Lutkin and composer Anna Meredith, alongside a broader team of long-time National Theatre collaborators.
The run will include assisted performances, captioned and audio-described shows, and a relaxed performance, reflecting the theatre’s wider accessibility programme.
Alongside the production, the National Theatre will host a special event on Martin Crimp’s work and writing practice, marking the new adaptation as part of a broader reflection on his career.
Tickets are now on sale.
To book online visit www.nationaltheatre.org.uk
Elena Leo is the Culture & Lifestyle Editor of Ikon London Magazine.
