The London revival of Clifford Odets’ classic American play “Golden Boy” at the Almeida Theatre has bulked out its cast while revealing a trailer of Josh O’Connor in the lead role.
Joining the production alongside O’Connor, currently on cinema screens in “Disclosure Day,” are Jason Barnett (“Bridgerton,” “3 Body Problem”), Richard Fleeshman (Olivier nominated for “Company”), David Ganly (“The Crown,” “Moon Knight”), Patrick Martins (“Emma,” “Audrey or Sorrow”), Daniel Mays (BAFTA TV nominated for “Line of Duty”), Oliver Ryan (“Mr. Burton,” “Dune”), Hayley Squires (Olivier nominated for “All My Sons”), Stanley Townsend (“The Gentlemen,” “Andor”), Zubin Varla (Olivier winner for “Tammy Faye”) and Nicholas Woodeson (“Skyfall,” “The Death of Stalin”).
Being directed by Sam Yates (“Vanya,” “Magpie”), “Golden Boy” opens on Sep. 15, with previews from Sep. 9 and runs until Oct. 31.
Set in in 1930s New York at the height of the depression, “Golden Boy” follows Joe Bonaparte, a gifted young violinist with extraordinary talent and a future in music. That is, until a chance at fame and fortune lures him into the brutal world of professional boxing. Pressured by a ruthless manager, tempted by a forbidden love, and bound by the expectations of his Italian-American family, Bonaparte is a young man torn between the seductive promise of the American Dream and the quiet honour of a decent life. He must confront what he’s willing to sacrifice, who he’s willing to become, and how to find his place in a world that demands he choose a side.
Odett’s biggest hit, “Golden Boy” was first staged on Broadway by The Group Theatre in 1937, and later adapted into a 1939 film of the same (starring William Holden in what would be his breakout role). It also served as the basis for a 1964 musical starring Sammy Davis Jr.
Alongside Yates on the production team at the Almeida’s revival are set and costume designer Rosanna Vize, lighting designer James Farncombe, sound designer Dan Balfour, composer Isobel Waller-Bridge, video designerJack Phelan, casting director Jim Carnahan, children’s casting director Amy Beadel, movement director Imogen Knight, fight director Kate Waters, orchestral manager David Gallagher, dialect coach Will Conacher and associate director Yasmin Hafesji.
Tickets go on sale today.
See the trailer below:
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