New rehearsal photos have been released for the Royal Shakespeare Company’s (RSC) upcoming production of The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui, featuring Mark Gatiss in the lead role. This ambitious adaptation of Bertolt Brecht’s political comedy is directed by Seán Linnen and features a fresh script by Stephen Sharkey, complemented by music from the band Placebo.
Production Details
The performance will take place at the Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, running from April 11 to May 30, 2026. The storyline unfolds in the gritty environment of Chicago’s criminal underworld, delivering a sharp satire on the rise of Adolf Hitler.
Cast Highlights
- Mark Gatiss as Arturo Ui
- Mawaan Rizwan as Giri
- Janie Dee as Betty Dullfeet
- Kadiff Kirwan as Roma
- Christopher Godwin as Dogsborough
- LJ Parkinson as Givola
Additional cast members include Joe Alessi as Butcher/Dullfeet/Prosecution, Valerie Antwi and Mark Hammersley as Ensemble/Swing, Rebekah Hinds as Flake/Dockdaisy, Cameron Johnson as Mulberry/Jimmy Greenwool/The Judge, Samuel Nunes de Souza as Ensemble, Mahesh Parmar in multiple roles, Santino Smith as Sheet/Hook, and Amanda Wilkin as Clark/Ragg/The Woman.
Significance of the Play
Brecht’s work is renowned for its critical examination of totalitarian regimes, making it a relevant critique today. The production promises to evoke discussions around power and manipulation, harking back to historical warnings that resonate in modern society.
Currently, there is no information regarding a potential transfer of this production to the West End. For updates on The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui, audiences can sign up for alerts on the El-Balad website.
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For those interested in theatrical performances, a comprehensive list of West End shows in London is available for exploration.
