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Sandra Oh takes the title role in a razor-sharp reimagining of Molière’s classic comedy

Witness a theatrical powerhouse in the making as Golden Globe-winner Sandra Oh makes her highly anticipated National Theatre debut in a searing new production of The Misanthrope.

Reimagined for the 21st century by acclaimed playwright Martin Crimp (Cyrano de Bergerac) and directed by the National Theatre’s Artistic Director Indhu Rubasingham, this biting adaptation transforms Molière’s classic social satire into a contemporary masterclass in integrity, backlash, and the cost of the truth.

Book tickets early for this highly anticipated revival starring Sandra Oh

What is The Misanthrope about?

In this “cutting and razor-sharp” version, the traditionally male role of Alceste is reimagined as Alice (Sandra Oh).

Alice, a brilliant novelist, despises the hollow contemporary mantras of kindness and respect. But the bolder she becomes in speaking out, the more colleagues avoid her, and the more her personal relationships begin to fracture.

As she challenges fashionable ideas and lends her voice to causes others are afraid to touch, she faces intense criticism and backlash. Alice will soon learn the price she must pay as an artist and as a woman for daring to speak her mind.

In a world governed by public image and private compromise, how much of yourself are you willing to lose to stay honest?

The Star Cast & Creative Team

This production features an exceptional ensemble of stage and screen talent:

    • Sandra Oh: The multi-award-winning star of Killing Eve and Grey’s Anatomy in her National Theatre debut.

    • Paul Chahidi: Acclaimed star of The Night Manager and This Country.

    • Abigail Cruttenden: Known for her roles in Ragdoll and Not Going Out.

    • Martin Crimp: The Olivier Award-winning writer behind the global hit Cyrano de Bergerac.

    • Indhu Rubasingham: The Director of the National Theatre.

Ticket Availability & Booking

Demand for The Misanthrope tickets at the Lyttelton Theatre is expected to be unprecedented given Sandra Oh’s London debut. Don’t miss your chance to see this “contemporary verse” masterpiece.

Get tickets early to avoid disappointment and witness a global star live on the London stage.

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Performance Information

Check booking calendar for full details

Stars and Creatives

Who is in the cast of The Misanthrope?

The full principal cast is as follows:

  • Sandra Oh (Killing Eve, Grey’s Anatomy) as Alice
  • Paul Chahidi (The Merry Wives, NT) as John
  • Abigail Cruttenden (Grantchester) as Claire
  • Imogen Elliott as Esmée
  • Rina Fatania as Indira
  • Freddie MacBruce as Allen
  • Tom Mison (Sleepy Hollow) as Stefan
  • Jemima Rooper (Goldfish Bowl, NT) as Elaine

Young performers Arthur Blanc and Teddy Holton-Frances play Benjamin, with Francesca Fullilove and Poppy Townsend White as Madeleine.

Who are the creative team of The Misanthrope?

Artistic Team

  • Writer – Martin Crimp
  • Director – Indhu Rubasingham
  • Set & Costume Designer – Robert Jones
  • Lighting Designer – Tim Lutkin
  • Casting Directors – Alastair Coomer CDG & Martin Poile CDG
  • Voice Coach – Jeannette Nelson
  • Associate Director – Gitika Buttoo
  • Associate Set & Costume Designer – Ethan Cheek

Venue Information

National Theatre - Lyttelton Theatre , Upper Ground, London, SE1 9PX

Nearest Tube or Train: Waterloo (Jubilee line, Northern line, Bakerloo line)

Nearest Buses: 1, 4, 26, 59, 68, 76, 139, 168, 171, 172, 176, 188, 243, 341, 521, X68, RV1

Directions

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Critics' reviews of The Misanthrope

★★★ “The Canadian actress commands attention, effortlessly.” The Telegraph

★★★ “This reworking of the 17th-century classic simpers in its satire and woos in its human drama.” The Guardian

★★★ “This is a Misanthrope full of interesting ideas and fine effects.” What's On Stage

Frequently Asked Questions

The Misanthrope is playing at the National Theatre - Lyttelton Theatre in London
Yes, The Misanthrope has matinee performances on the following days: Wednesday, Saturday
The production stars Golden Globe and SAG Award-winner Sandra Oh (Killing Eve, Grey’s Anatomy) in the lead role of Alice. She is joined by Paul Chahidi (The Night Manager, This Country) and Abigail Cruttenden (Ragdoll, Not Going Out).
This is a modern reimagining by Martin Crimp, based on Molière’s classic dark comedy. It follows Alice (Sandra Oh), a novelist who despises modern social hypocrisies. Written in contemporary verse, the play explores the fallout of her refusal to conform to 21st-century 'fashionable ideas' and public mantras.
You can book tickets online through WestEndTheatre.com. Given Sandra Oh's star power and the high demand for National Theatre productions, we recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred dates and seats.
While a specific age rating has not been released, The Misanthrope is a sophisticated dark comedy that deals with adult themes, modern politics, and complex relationships. It is generally recommended for ages 12 and up.
No, sorry, The Misanthrope has now completed its run and is no longer on sale.

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