Oscar-winning actress Susan Sarandon is about to make a striking entrance into the UK theatre scene, and her enthusiasm is palpable. Known for her powerful performances in films like “Dead Man Walking” and television hits like “Feud,” Sarandon describes her upcoming role as “terrified but excited.” This emotional complexity is perhaps reflective of her latest project: the UK premiere of Tracy Letts’ play “Mary Page Marlowe” at London’s prestigious Old Vic Theatre. This highly anticipated production sees Sarandon sharing the stage with Academy Award nominee Andrea Riseborough, and marks a significant milestone in both of their careers.
The dual casting of Sarandon and Riseborough as the title character across different stages of Mary Page Marlowe’s life layers the production with unique insights into aging and identity. It also signifies a thematic exploration that resonates deeply with audiences. In an era where the complexity of women’s narratives is more valued than ever, this play offers a sweeping 70-year vista of choices—both minute and profound—that have shaped the life of a single woman.
A Directorial Legacy
Helming this production is Matthew Warchus, The Old Vic’s artistic director, who is stepping down in September 2026. This marks his final season, adding a sense of urgency and significance to the performance. The anticipation surrounding Warchus’ direction can’t be understated; his previous works, like “Groundhog Day” and “Pride,” have left an indelible mark on the British theater landscape. Sarandon’s sentiment of being “honored” to work with him speaks to his reputation and the high expectations audiences have for this production.
Warchus has a history of effectively intertwining complex narratives with captivating performances, and “Mary Page Marlowe” seems to promise just that. This collaboration reunites him with Riseborough, who starred in his film “Matilda: The Musical.” Such recurring partnerships often yield a deeper understanding of the material at hand, resulting in a richer theater-going experience.
The Importance of Theatre
The excitement around Sarandon’s stage debut reflects a broader renaissance of interest in live theater. With the pandemic having shut down many performance venues, the return of celebrated actors to the stage brings a sense of renewal and hope to the theater community. Sarandon has deep roots in the theater, having first graced Broadway with “An Evening with Richard Nixon” back in 1972. Her experience ranges from Broadway to off-Broadway, and her past performances have become benchmarks for new actors within the community.
Moreover, the fact that “Mary Page Marlowe” tackles profound themes of choice and consequence strikes a chord in today’s society, where individual decisions can feel overwhelmingly impactful. The generational exploration of a woman’s life—spanning marriages, motherhood, and the nuanced choices that define her existence—provides a mirror for audiences to examine their narratives and the implications of their decisions.
Access and Engagement
Another exciting aspect of this production is its commitment to accessibility. For the first five preview performances, tickets will be available at a modest price of £10 (approximately $13.71). This initiative ensures that premiere performances are not just accessible to the affluent but also to a diverse audience, fostering a more inclusive environment in the theater community.
As performances are set to begin on September 23 and continue through November 1, the anticipation surrounding this production is palpable. With such renowned talent, both on and off the stage, audiences will likely find themselves engaged in an evocative reflection on the choices that define a woman’s life. While the full cast is still being assembled, the focus remains fixed on the powerful narrative that has captivated audiences since its Chicago debut at Steppenwolf Theatre in 2016.
In essence, Susan Sarandon’s London stage debut in “Mary Page Marlowe” isn’t merely about the celebrities gracing the stage. It highlights the essential role of storytelling and the shared experiences that connect audiences to complex and relatable characters. This production is set to invigorate a classic theater space, resonating not only with the lives it portrays but also enriching the broader cultural narrative surrounding women and their multifaceted lives.