A new MIT/RSC commission by Adriano Shaplin directed by Elizabeth Freestone
This world premiere of award-winning playwright Adriano Shaplin's new history play is set in London in 1658. The Civil War is over, the King has been executed, Oliver Cromwell has closed the theatres and the talk in the coffee houses is of revolution. Meanwhile England's most famous philosopher is poised to do battle with a faction of young scientists.
The Tragedy of Thomas Hobbes brings vividly to life a period of history when science was the new theatre and philosophy became a new faith. It is a provocative and experimental journey back to a time of dead dogs, new gods and apparent miracles.
The magnificent Wilton's Music Hall will provide a stunning backdrop for this dark enlightenment comedy.
Adriano Shaplin is co-founder of The Riot Group and has written and acted in all of their original productions, including Pugilist Specialist which received The Scotsman's First of the Firsts award at the Edinburgh Fringe 2003. Elizabeth Freestone will direct a cast from the ensemble of actors performing in Stratford-upon-Avon this summer including Stephen Boxer who plays Petruchio in The Taming of the Shrew and Angus Wright who plays Shylock in The Merchant of Venice.
The Tragedy of Thomas Hobbes plays at Wilton's Music Hall, London from 12 November - 6 December 2008.
Running time
The running time for The Tragedy of Thomas Hobbes is 2 hours 50 minutes including an interval of 20 minutes.
Access performances
Assisted performance on 6 December.
Additional information
Download the RSC's London Season schedule.
The RSC's Literary Department is generously supported by THE DRUE HEINZ TRUST.
The RSC's New Work is generously supported by CHRISTOPHER SETON ABELE on behalf of THE ARGOSY FOUNDATION.
