Susan Sarandon, the acclaimed Oscar-winning actress, is set to make her UK theatre debut in the highly anticipated production of Tracy Letts' play Mary Page Marlowe at London’s historic Old Vic Theatre this autumn. The run will take place from 23 September to 1 November, marking a significant milestone in Sarandon’s illustrious career, which has so far encompassed film and Broadway but notably not British stages. Sharing the limelight with her will be Oscar-nominated Andrea Riseborough, who returns to the theatre after a 15-year hiatus. Both actresses will portray the title character, Mary Page Marlowe, at different ages spanning seven decades, with additional casting to be announced.

The play itself, described as a “vivid, time-jumping mosaic of one woman’s life,” explores the complexities and nuances of Mary’s experiences through fragmented yet deeply connected moments. This poignant examination of identity and memory is the work of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Tracy Letts, known for his compelling narratives and richly drawn characters. Sarandon expressed a mix of nervousness and excitement about the role, saying she feels “terrified but excited” to be part of Matthew Warchus’ final season as artistic director at the Old Vic. Warchus, who is directing the production, described the play as a sensational start to his farewell season and shared his enthusiasm for the immersive in-the-round staging, which will envelop the audience in a 360-degree experience within the 200-year-old auditorium, newly transformed for this production.

Riseborough voiced her gratitude for the opportunity to work with Warchus again and her excitement to bring Letts’ work to life at the revered venue. She pointed out the honour of portraying multiple facets of Mary’s life alongside Sarandon, highlighting the depth and emotional range demanded by the role. The innovative nature of the staging, combined with the complex character journey, promises a deeply engaging theatrical experience.

Mary Page Marlowe first premiered at Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theatre in 2016 before moving off-Broadway in 2018, where it was met with critical acclaim. Previous productions featured six actresses portraying Mary at various life stages, each bringing a unique dimension to her story. Reviews have praised the play’s elegant structure and emotional power, citing its episodic snapshots that together reveal the full portrait of a woman’s life. The piece has been noted for its ability to evoke deep empathy and reflection, showcasing ordinary moments imbued with extraordinary significance.

The Old Vic’s production will retain this multi-stage portrayal, emphasising the passage of time and the fluidity of identity. The play’s themes resonate with universal questions about memory, choice, and self-understanding, offering audiences a rich tapestry of lived experience that defies a traditional linear narrative. This UK staging not only marks a career highlight for Sarandon and the return of Riseborough to theatre but also adds to the growing appreciation of Tracy Letts’ insightful dramaturgy on both sides of the Atlantic.

Tickets for the production are now on sale to members, with general sales opening from midday on Friday. The excitement surrounding this staging is palpable, promising a landmark event in London’s 2025 theatrical calendar.

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Source: Noah Wire Services