Leeds Playhouse and Headlong have announced casting for August Wilson’s gritty and poetic American drama Jitney, playing in Leeds from 16 October-6 November 2021.

Jitney stands out as one of the great American contemporary classics. Filled with conflict, love, jealousy and deceit, this groundbreaking drama is set in 1970s Pittsburgh and explores the fragile bond between eight unlicensed cab drivers as they live, love and work in racially segregated, post-war America; directed by Tinuke Craig (The Color Purple, Leicester Curve).

The cast includes Tony Marshall as Fielding (Casualty, BBC); Andrew French as Becker (Refugee Boy, Leeds Playhouse); Geoff Aymer as Doub (The Color Purple, Leicester Curve); CJ Beckford as Youngblood (I Am Danielle, Channel 4); Leanne Henlon as Rena (seven methods of killing kylie jenner, Royal Court); Dayo Koleosho as Philmore (The Darkest Part of The Night, Kiln Theatre - workshop); Leemore Marrett Jr as Booster (Death in Paradise, BBC); and Sule Rimi as Turnbo (Barber Shop Chronicles, Leeds Playhouse).

Director Tinuke Craig said: “I’m really excited to have the chance to spend time with this iconic play and its wonderful characters. August Wilson is one of my favourite playwrights and I am thrilled to be making this show.”

Joining Tinuke Craig on the creative team are set & costume designer Alex Lowde, lighting designer Elliott Griggs, and sound designer and composer Max Perryment.

For more information and to book tickets, please click here.