Welcome To Thebes Tickets

The acclaimed theatre director Richard Eyre will be taking the reins of “Welcome to Thebes” in 2010, making it the latest occasion in which he has worked with the National Theatre, following productions like “The Reporter” and, even earlier, “Guys and Dolls”. He served as the company’s Director from the late 1980s and late 1990s and looks set to find success once again in what is shaping up to be a highly welcomed show.

But enjoyable shows must stem from a compelling script and this is where playwright Moira Buffini steps in, presenting a Greek legend in a contemporary setting for her latest production. The playwright is no stranger to the National Theatre herself, having provided the likes of “The Vampire Diaries” in 2008 and “Dinner” at the National Theatre in 2002. The latter earned a nomination for a Laurence Olivier Award and she would go on to pen further acclaimed works such as “Marianne Dreams” at the Almeida Theatre in 2007.

But “Welcome to Thebes” looks set to be an exciting piece of work from the dramatist, appearing at the National Theatre at the same time as another show that deals with political unrest – “Danton’s Death”. But the two plays are very different and with “Welcome to Thebes”, Buffini will be proving that the Greek myth will stand up to scrutiny in a modern day setting.

It follows the character of Eurydice (Nikki Amuka-Bird) as she attempts to do good for the nation following her election as the President of Thebes. She is the first to be given such a mandate following a democratic process and has high hopes for what she can achieve, promising peace as part of her plans for her people. But she cannot do it alone and the only person who can help her – Theseus (David Harewood), a powerful state ruler – does not look like he will stand by her side, with the motivations of the two people a world apart. Cue huge opposition and political unrest.

The two stars, Amuka-Bird and Harewood, have appeared in various roles for the stage over the years, with the former boasting credits for the Royal Shakespeare Company and shows such as “World Music” at the Donmar Warehouse. The latter was recently seen in Katori Hall’s Laurence Oliver Award-winning play “The Mountaintop” and has also appeared in movies like “Blood Diamond”.

“Welcome to Thebes” appears at the Olivier National Theatre from Tuesday 22nd June 2010, with previews beginning from Tuesday 15th June 2010.