Pasadena Playhouse Producing Artistic Director Danny Feldman has announced Nigerian-British actor Chukwudi Iwuji will star in “Cyrano de Bergerac” this fall. The production, freely adapted by Martin Crimp from Edmond Rostand’s original work, will run from Sept. 4 to 29.
Iwuji, who played the lead villain The High Evolutionary in “Guardians of the Galaxy” and the Royal Shakespeare Company, will take on the titular role of Cyrano. The actor’s recent credits also include starring in the series “Peacemaker.”
Joining Iwuji in the cast are Rosa Salazar as Roxane, Will Hochman as Christian, and Kimberly Scott as Madame Ragueneau. Salazar is recognized for her work in “Alita: Battle Angel” and “Brand New Cherry Flavor,” while Hochman appeared on Broadway in “The Sound Inside.”
Mike Donahue, whose credits include “Little Shop of Horrors” and “The Inheritance,” will direct the production. The full creative team includes Afsoon Pajoufar as scenic designer, Carolyn Mazuca as costume designer, Josh Epstein and Edward Hansen as lighting designers, Veronika Vorel as sound designer, and Rachel Lee Flesher as intimacy/fight choreographer. Casting is by RBT Casting.
The play explores a timeless love story, with Cyrano discovering the love of his life has eyes for another man. The production is partially underwritten by honorary producers Stephen and Susan Chandler, and Tammi and Lenny Steren.
“One of the greatest plays ever written is radically reborn in this critically acclaimed adaptation,” the Playhouse said in the announcement. “Modern poetry and sizzling rhythm collide in a scorching love triangle when Cyrano discovers the love of his life has eyes for another man.”
Tickets for “Cyrano de Bergerac” are currently available through Membership purchase, with single tickets available starting July 16.
The play will have a varied performance schedule, including Wednesday and Friday evenings at 8 p.m., Thursdays at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. A special Tuesday evening show is scheduled for Sept. 17 at 8 p.m.
Pasadena Playhouse, founded in 1917, has a rich history of staging original productions and premiering works by renowned playwrights. Under Feldman’s leadership since 2016, the theater has focused on making theater accessible to everyone in the community. Last year, the Playhouse received the 2023 Regional Theatre Tony Award, on the recommendation by the American Theatre Critics Association.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.pasadenaplayhouse.org.
