Red Velvet

Imagined experiences based on the true story of Ira Aldridge

Theatre Royal, Covent Garden, 1833. Edmund Kean, the greatest actor of his generation, has collapsed on stage whilst playing Othello. A young black American actor has been asked to take over the role. But as the public riot in the streets over the abolition of slavery, how will the cast, critics and audience react to the revolution taking place in the theatre?

This multi-award winning play, which originally premiered at the Tricycle Theatre, before transferring to St Ann's Warehouse in New York, will be the third production in the Plays at the Garrick Season and will be directed by Indhu Rubasingha.  Olivier-Award winner Adrian Lester will reprise his role as Ira Aldridge.  Kenneth Branagh said "Writing, direction and performance are exceptional in Red Velvet. I’m immensely proud to be presenting this work. I was aware of its development from its inception and believe Lolita Chakrabarti has written an important and exhilarating play which in its discussion of performance, politics, and race is as entertaining as it is illuminating."