Nassim Soleimanpour’s critically acclaimed play, White Rabbit Red Rabbit, is returning to the West End to celebrate its 15th anniversary. The show will run at the Duchess Theatre every Monday from June 8 to November 2, featuring a unique format where a different performer each night reads a script they have never seen before.
Performance Schedule and Cast
This innovative production will showcase a mix of notable actors, including:
- David Harewood – June 8
- David Tennant – June 15
- Jo Joyner – June 22
- Asim Chaudhry – June 29
- Luke Thompson – July 6
- Jodie Whittaker – July 13
- Kathryn Hunter – July 20
- Kunal Nayyar – July 27
- Archie Madekwe – September 21
- Riz Ahmed – September 28
A Unique Theatrical Experience
Since its inception in 2011, White Rabbit Red Rabbit has been performed over 3,000 times worldwide and translated into more than 30 languages. The play’s author, Soleimanpour, initially penned it while unable to leave Iran. This powerful work addresses themes of authoritarian oppression through a format that is strikingly adaptable and universal.
Production Insights
Soleimanpour and Omar Elerian founded the production company Then & There, with White Rabbit Red Rabbit being their first project. Their partnership has also led to other successful productions such as ECHO at the Royal Court Theatre and NASSIM at the Bush Theatre.
Both Soleimanpour and Elerian express excitement about this new chapter. They aim to bring fresh, unconventional performances to the West End. Elerian emphasizes storytelling’s transformative power, especially during uncertain times.
Critics’ Praise
A recent review highlighted the unique responses of performers to the play, reinforcing its timeless nature. This aspect showcases the creative risks that both actors and the audience will encounter.
For those interested, tickets for White Rabbit Red Rabbit will soon be available on El-Balad, marking a significant event for theatre lovers in London.
