The Traverse Theatre Company, Theatre Royal Bath Ustinov Studio and the Bush Theatre London announce that casting is complete and rehearsals are beginning today on their co-production of Right Now by Montréal writer and actor Catherine-Anne Toupin, translated by Literary Manager of the Royal Court, Chris Campbell.
The English language translation of Right Now was first heard as a script-in-hand reading at the Traverse in November 2014 as part of New Writing from Québec, a cultural exchange between the Traverse Theatre and Théâtre La Licorne, home of La Manufacture Theatre Company in Montréal. La Licorne mirrors some of the key passions of the Traverse Theatre, commissioning and producing some of the best new writing from Québec and beyond, and presenting a significant number of Traverse plays in translation.
Right Now was originally written and performed in French as A Présent by Québécois actor and playwright Catherine-Anne Toupin, and presented by Théâtre de la Manufacture at Théâtre la Licorne, in Montréal and is a disquieting exploration of one woman’s crisis and darkest desires.
As Alice and Ben settle into their beautiful new flat they realise that the family across the hall hope to be more than just good neighbours. Soon, Juliette, Giles, and their son Francis are wearing out the welcome mat; suggesting drinks, hors d’oeuvres and dancing. Things begin to heat up as innocent invitations lead to passionate encounters and unsettling revelations.
Award winning director of Right Now Michael Boyd said, “Our challenge to do justice to this heart-breaking, hilarious and disturbing play begins today, and I couldn't feel better equipped than with this brilliant dare-devil cast.”
The role of Juliette will be played by Maureen Beattie who has already put her stamp on the work of another Québécois writer Jennifer Tremblay when she played the main character to great acclaim in Trembaly’s trilogy of plays. She will be joined by the stellar cast of Sean Biggerstaff, Lindsey Campbell, Dyfan Dwyfor and Guy Williams in the roles of Ben, Alice, Francis, and Giles.
Orla O’Loughlin, Artistic Director of the Traverse Theatre, said, “With an exceptional cast assembled and an exciting creative team roaring to go, I’m thrilled that rehearsals have begun on this ambitious Traverse co-production. I can’t wait to welcome the Right Now company when the play lands in Edinburgh this April. This thrilling production, … represents the fruition of a rich and artistically satisfying journey for the Traverse. … For us, it exemplifies the vital role the Traverse plays in seeking out, nurturing and presenting the best new writing both at home and internationally.”
Traverse Theatre Tuesday 19 April 2016
Opens 19 April – 7 May 2016
Theatre Royal Bath Ustinov Studio Wednesday 24 February 2016
Opens 18 February – 19 March 2016
Bush Theatre LondonTuesday 29 March 2016
Opens 23 March – 16 April 2016