James Corden Returns to the Stage with Anna Maxwell Martin

Image credit: Jamie Ingles

The Old Vic today announces the world premiere of Olivier Award winner Joe Penhall’s The Constituent, starring Tony, BAFTA and Emmy Award winner James Corden (One Man, Two Guvnors, The History Boys, Into the Woods) and BAFTA Award winner Anna Maxwell Martin (Motherland, Line of Duty, Poppy Shakespeare) who will both make their Old Vic debuts from 13 June to 10 August. 

This volatile new play stars Anna Maxwell Martin as a hard-working opposition backbencher whose ideals of public office are tested by the demands of a man in crisis, played by James Corden. Directed by Old Vic Artistic Director and Olivier Award winner Matthew Warchus, The Constituent deconstructs politics, panic alarms and the conflict between public service and personal safety.  

Matthew Warchus said: ‘In a theatre once mainly renowned for classic revivals, I’m excited to present The Old Vic’s 25th world premiere since my tenure began in 2015 – this urgently topical new play from Joe Penhall set in a local MP’s constituency office. In a landscape of increasing threat, what place is there for empathy? Is an open door policy now dependent on stab vests?’  

Joe Penhall said: ‘I began writing this play four years ago, as I became fascinated and appalled by the growing antipathy towards elected politicians. But during lockdown it looked like theatre was done for, so when I showed a rough first draft to Matthew and he had such a confident vision for it, I was simultaneously thrilled and doubtful of our chances. It’s beyond exciting to be finally doing it and I feel utterly indebted to The Old Vic and everyone involved for getting us here.’ 

Also announced to complete the cast is Zachary Hart (An Enemy of the People, Masters of the Air, Julius Caesar). Set and Costume is by Rob Howell and Lighting by Hugh Vanstone, with the rest of the creative team to be announced.   

‘I am not your punch bag! I am a Member of Parliament!’ 

An MP with an instinct for compassion - An ex-serviceman with a life in free fall - And a parliamentary protection officer who’s having none of it.  

This volatile new play stars BAFTA Award winner Anna Maxwell Martin as a hard-working opposition backbencher whose ideals of public office are tested by the demands of a man in crisis, played by Tony, BAFTA and Emmy Award winner James Corden. 

The Constituent deconstructs politics, panic alarms and the conflict between public service and personal safety.   

Tickets are on sale here