Lead casting announced for world premiere stage production of THE ARTIST

Photo credit: Mark Senior

Lead casting has been revealed for the world premiere stage production of Michel Hazanavicius’ multi–Academy Award-winning film The Artist, which plays at Theatre Royal Plymouth from 11-25 May 2024.

Multi award-winning international dancer and actor Robbie Fairchild returns to the UK stage for the first time since his acclaimed leading performance in An American In Paris to play silent movie icon George Valentin, with West End favourite Gary Wilmot as Al Zimmer, and introducing Briana Craig (42nd Street, UK tour) as Peppy Miller.

Drew McOnie, Artistic Director of The McOnie Company, said: “It is such an honour to be collaborating with these exceptional artists on this brand new production. The commitment and talent that pours from them is palpable and I’m so excited for audiences to fall head over heels in love with each of them for their bravery, honesty and heart.”

The Artist is co-adapted for the stage by Lindsey Ferrentino and Drew McOnie and directed and choreographed by McOnie. The multi award-winning creative team includes set and costume designs by Tony and Olivier Award winner Christopher Oram, music by Tony and Olivier Award winner Simon Hale, lighting by Zoe Spurr, sound by Tony and Olivier Award winner Simon Baker, video by Ash J Woodward, puppetry by Maia Kirkman-Richards, casting by Will Burton, and musical director by Chris Poon.

Further casting to be announced.

In 1920s Hollywood the business of making dreams come true is in full swing.

Silent movie icon George Valentin has long been the darling of the silver screen when he falls for aspiring actress Peppy Miller.

But while her star is about to rise, his might soon flicker out: amidst all the glamour, laughter and romance, the silent movie industry is on the brink of a revolution.

With the Talkies on their way, George must either find his voice in a brave new world or lose everything he holds dear to a bygone era.

The Artist has mesmerised film audiences across the world for over a decade, winning five Academy Awards, seven BAFTAs and three Golden Globe Awards. Now the beguiling love story is reinvented for the stage in a dazzling celebration of silent cinema that blends cutting-edge theatre-making with iconic music of the period.

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