Cast Update for Birdsong at the Comedy Theatre

The full cast has been announced for Sebastian Faulks's Birdsong, in a stage version by Rachel Wagstaff, which opens at the Comedy Theatre 28 Sep 2010, following previews from 18 Sep - booking to 15 Jan 2011.

Joining previously mentioned Ben Barnes as Stephen Wraysford, are Nicholas Farrell (Rene Azaire), Iain Mitchell (Bérard), Genevieve O'Reilly (Isabelle), Lee Ross (Jack Firebrace), Zoe Waites (Jeanne). The cast also includes Owain Arthur, Billy Carter, Florence Hall, Paul Hawkyard, Gregg Lowe, Joe Coen, Jack Hawkins, James Staddon, Annabel Topham .

Directed by Trevor Nunn, and produced by Creative Management and Productions (CMP) / Becky Barber Productions Ltd

Tells the story of one man's journey through an all-consuming love affair and into the horror of the First World War: While staying as the guest of a factory owner in pre-First World War France, Stephen Wraysford embarks on a passionate affair with Isabelle, the wife of his host. The affair changes them both for ever. A few years later Stephen finds himself back in the same part of France, but this time as a soldier at the Battle of the Somme, the bloodiest encounter in British military history. As his men die around him, Stephen turns to his enduring love for Isabelle for the strength to continue and to save something for future generations.

Ben Barnes's film credits include the role of Prince Caspian in two of the Chronicles of Narnia films - as well the title role in Oliver Parker's Dorian Gray, and roles in Stardust and Easy Virtue.

Nicholas Farrell made his film debut as Aubrey Montague in Chariots of Fire. He has had a long and varied career on stage and screen, playing Tony Blair in David Hare's Stuff Happens (National Theatre) as well as several other roles for the RSC.

Iain Mitchell's most recent stage appearance was in La Cage Aux Folles (Menier Chocolate Factory/West End). He has made countless appearances on the National Theatre stage, in such shows as Stuff Happens (as Jack Straw), His Dark Materials, Edmond, Mother Clapp's Molly House, The Invention of Love and The Madness of George III.

Genevieve O'Reilly is perhaps most well-known for her role as regular character Sarah Caulfield in the BBC television series Spooks.

Lee Ross made his stage debut in Mickey Dolenz' West End staging of Bugsy Malone. He played Owen Turner in Eastenders for two stretches in 2006 and 2009. He was a regular on The Catherine Tate Show, as well as the television series Ashes to Ashes and Life on Mars. His stage credits include The Neighbour (National Theatre) and Whipping it Up (West End transfer).

Zoe Waites recently appeared in Thea Sharrock's production of Mrs Klein (Almeida). She has also played several roles for the RSC.

Originally published on

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