The actor, who created the role of Count Fosco but left the London production earlier in 2005 claiming ill health, was succeeded in the role by Michael Ball. Crawford was scheduled to return, but it has been reported that Anthony Andrews will play Fosco beginning May 2, which means that Crawford will not be back.

Andrews is an extremely experienced actor, having become famous for starring in the television drama “Brideshead Revisited.” He will step into the Trevor Nunn production of Woman after previously working with the director on My Fair Lady at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. Andrews was also the third leading man in that show, succeeding Jonathan Pryce and Alex Jennings as Higgins.

The other big Woman In White news is that Ruthie Henshall will replace Maria Friedman as Marian. This scotches rumors that Joanna Riding would take over in the part. Henshall has starred in Chicago (as the current London production’s first Roxie — she later played Velma on Broadway), Crazy for You and She Loves Me. Henshall will play Marian beginning July 11.

There have not been any announced replacements for other principals, who include Angela Christian, Jill Paice, Martin Crewes, Edward Petherbridge and Oliver Darley. Nor has there yet been an announcement about casting for the show’s Broadway opening.

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