Chichester’s Minerva Theatre is to host Mike Bartlett’s play, entitled Cock, from 28 September to 27 October 2018.
Bartlett’s Olivier Award-winning play has not been revived since it premiered at the Royal Court in 2009.
But this autumn, Chichester will see a fresh and frank look at modern relationships, questioning attitudes to sexuality and the growing awareness of its fluidity, the funny, provocative and refreshing Cock.
John, the central character, will be played by Luke Thallon, the recipient of the National Theatre’s Michael Bryant Award 2017 and the Society of London Theatre’s Laurence Olivier Bursary Prize 2016, ably supported by Chichester veterans Matthew Needham, Isabella Laughland and Simon Chandler.
Never shying away from an edgy and fascinating subject, having previously directed productions of Peter Morgan’s Frost/Nixon and Caryl Churchill’s Far Away, and named as one of Variety’s ‘10 Brits to Watch in 2017′, Kate Hewitt directs here.
Many may be intrigued to see the latest Mike Bartlett-penned production, after seeing some of his other acclaimed work, including King Charles III, and hit TV series Doctor Foster. It should be noted that Cock contains very strong language and scenes of a sexual nature, and therefore it is advised that this production is suitable only for an audience aged 16 and over.
Further to the play, there are other events related to Cock going on, including a pre-show talk with the director on Wednesday 3rd October at 6 pm; this is a free event but must be booked in advance. Writer Mike Bartlett will be talking to novelist Kate Mosse after the show on Tuesday 16 October about his celebrated dramas for stage and screen. On Thursday 25 October, you can also stay after the performance to ask questions, meet company members and discover more; this is also free.
Information on tickets can be found on the Chichester Festival Theatre website.