THE WAY OF THE WORLD
by William Congreve
29 March 2018 – 26 May 2018
★★★★
‘James Macdonald’s stylish account of Congreve’s Restoration comedy is terrifically funny… And the superb cast highlight the delicious absurdities and buoyancy in the dialogue’
Independent
★★★★
‘This success, helped by Anna Fleischle’s glowing jewel-box design, proves the exceptional range of director James Macdonald’
Observer
★★★★
‘Top marks of all go to set design by Anna Fleischle, which turns the postage-stamp Donmar stage into a Tardis-like townhouse’
Sunday Times
Family, money, desire: the rules of the game, the way of the world.
Lady Wishfort’s sprawling, dysfunctional family are riven by desire – there’s everything to lose and six thousand pounds to gain. Congreve’s glorious ensemble of characters battle it out in this exposing, satirical comedy where everyone needs to win just to get by.
Production Photos
CAST
in order of speaking
Mirabell Geoffrey Streatfeild
Fainall Tom Mison
Betty/Peg Phoebe Frances Brown
Footman/Mirabell’s servant Nathan Welsh
Witwoud Fisayo Akinade
Petulant Simon Manyonda
Mrs Fainall Caroline Martin
Mrs Marwood Jenny Jules
Millamant Justine Mitchell
Mincing Gabrielle Brooks
Waitwell Alex Beckett/Robin Pearce
Foible Sarah Hadland
Lady Wishfort Haydn Gwynne
Sir Wilfull Witwoud Christian Patterson
In mid-April 2018, we were deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic loss of Alex Beckett.
Alex was a much-loved member of The Way of the World cast, playing Waitwell, and began his career in The Hotel in Amsterdam at the Donmar. He was a friend, an inspiration and a shining talent.
Together, we and the company dedicated this joyful production to the memory of this brilliant, funny and gifted man.
Following Alex’s death, Robin Pearce kindly stepped in to play the role of Waitwell.
CREATIVE TEAM
Director James Macdonald
Designer Anna Fleischle
Lighting Designer Peter Mumford
Sound Designer and Composer Max Pappenheim
Movement Director Francine Watson Coleman
Casting Alastair Coomer CDG
Rehearsal and production photography Johan Persson