Theatre / Bristol old vic
Mark Rylance leads spring season at Bristol Old Vic
Rehearsals have begun for the hugely anticipated Dr Semmelweis, which will have its world premiere at Bristol Old Vic in the New Year.
The play stars one of the UK’s most acclaimed and multiple-award-winning theatre, film and television actors, Mark Rylance, who wrote the play – in collaboration with Stephen Brown – based on his own original idea.
Originally due to be the jewel in the Bristol Old Vic programme for 2020 – the Year of Artists – Dr Semmelweis has been a long time coming, and will be Rylance’s long-awaited debut at the theatre.
is needed now More than ever
Directed by Tom Morris, the production will also feature a cast of supporting actors, dancers, and musicians. It is presented by Bristol Old Vic in association with Sonia Friedman Productions, the National Theatre, and Shakespeare Road.
Confronted by the terrible death toll of childbed fever in 19th century Vienna, maverick Doctor Semmelweis makes a discovery that could save hundreds of thousands of new mothers. But when the medical establishment questions his methods, rejects his theory and doubts his sanity, the controversial surgeon finds that being a pioneer is not enough.
Years later, he is haunted by the ghosts of the women he failed to save. Is it too late to convince the medical establishment to see the truth? And if he tries what will be the cost?
Also staging their world premieres as part of Bristol Old Vic’s spring season in 2022, are award-winning local writer Ross Willis’ Wonder Boy, directed by Sally Cookson, a coming-of-age story about a young boy with a stammer, and abolitionist story The Meaning of Zong, the searing debut play written by and starring Giles Terera, directed by Tom Morris.
Dr Semmelweis (age recommendation 12+) is at Bristol Old Vic from January 26-February 12, 2022, at 7.30pm, with 2.30pm matinee shows on Thursday and Saturdays. Previews begin from January 20. More information and tickets are available from www.bristololdvic.org.uk.
Main photo: Bristol Old Vic
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