Casting announced for Menier’s Kiss of the Spider Woman

Samuel Barnet and Declan Bennett are to star in Manuel Puig's Kiss of the Spider Woman at the Menier Chocolate Factory in March. 

The story, which has been adapted for the production by José Rivera and Allan Baker, is about he bond two criminals, Molina and Valentín, form in an Argentine prison through their daily conversations. 

Barnet, who was an original member of The History Boys cast, will play Molina. His previous credits also include Dealer's Choice (Menier/West End), The Beaux' Stratagem (National Theatre), and Twelfth Night (Shakespeare's Globe). 

Bennett will play Valentin. His previous credits include Jesus Christ Superstar (Open Air Theatre), Once (Phoenix Theatre) and American Idiot (St James Theatre). 

Laurie Sansom directs at the Menier Chocolate Factory for the first time. His previous credits include The Driver's Seat, The James Plays, and The Holy Rosenbergs at the National Theatre.

This new production at the Menier, which runs from 8th March to 5th May (official opening 21st March) will be directed by Laurie Sansom, who directs in the space for the first time. It will have designs by Jon Bausor, lighting by Paul Anderson and sound by Philip Pinsky.

Kiss of the Spider Woman is at the Menier Chocolate Factory from 8th March to 5th May.