Thomas Ostermeier’s reimagining of Henrik Ibsen’s An Enemy of the People, originally produced at Schaubühne Berlin, will begin previews in the West End February 6, 2024.
The production will officially open at the Duke of York’s Theatre February 20 with performances continuing through April 6.
Ostermeier will direct a company led by Matt Smith (Lungs, American Psycho, House of the Dragon, The Crown, Doctor Who) as Dr. Stockmann. Additional casting will be announced.
An Enemy of the People follows Dr. Stockmann, who makes an unbelievable discovery about the healing waters in his local baths. He holds the future of the town in his hands, but those with everything to lose refuse to accept his word.
Smith says, “Thomas Ostermeier pushes the form and boundaries of theatre; I have been a fan for quite some time. Seeing his Richard III with Lars Erdinger was electric. When I heard he was interested in coming to the British stage for the first time, with Ibsen’s classic An Enemy of the People, I was delighted to say the least. It is an honor to be able to work with him on this great play and become part of this unique project. We’re beginning an exciting casting process, and I very much look forward to returning to The Duke of York’s Theatre early next year.”
Ostermeier adds, “As we face the immediate impact of climate change and global warming, and our seeming incapacity to change these burning threats, Ibsen’s An Enemy of the People is unfortunately more relevant than ever. This is an urgent reason to create an English version of the production for London, and I look forward to collaborating with Matt Smith, an actor whose body of work I greatly admire.”
Ibsen's principal works include Brand, Peer Gynt, Emperor and Galilean, A Doll’s House, Ghosts, The Wild Duck, Rosmersholm, The Lady From the Sea, Hedda Gabler, The Master Builder, John Gabriel Borkman, and When We Dead Awaken.
David Binder Productions and Wessex Grove produce.
This upcoming production is separate from a planned Broadway revival of the work, set to begin performances spring 2024 with Jeremy Strong leading the cast. Directed by Sam Gold, the Broadway bow will feature a new adaptation by Amy Herzog.
Tickets will go on sale to the general public September 21. For additional information click here.
