Co-produced with Headlong, whose artistic director Jeremy Herrin directs, the cast will comprise Stanley Townsend, Amanda Hale, David Beames and Ivanno Jeremiah, joined by Zoe Brough and Isabella Pappas.
Originally premiered at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Los Angeles under the auspices of the Center Theatre Group, it won the 2012 Susan Smith Blackburn Prize, and is described in press materials as "an intricate crime drama and a haunting sci-fi thriller that explores the consequences of making dreams a reality. It invites the audience to examine provocative and difficult questions in our increasingly technological age where even in a virtual world there can be real moral consequences."
In the play, The Nether offers complete freedom - a virtual wonderland that provides total sensory immersion. Just log in, choose an identity and indulge your every desire. But when a young detective uncovers a disturbing brand of entertainment, she triggers an interrogation into the darkest corners of imagination.
The production has lighting by Paul Pyant, sound design by Ian Dickinson for Autograph, music by Nick Powell, costume design by Christina Cunningham and video design by Luke Halls.
Townsend has previously appeared at the Royal Court in Tribes, The Alice Trilogy, Shining City and The Weir. Other theatre credits include King Lear and Phedre (both at the National) and Broken Glass at the Tricycle. Amanda Hale last appeared for Headlong in King Lear (Liverpool Everyman/Young Vic) and at the Royal Court in Wastwater. Other credits include The House of Bernarda Alba at the Almeida and King Lear for Headlong.
Beames last appeared for Headlong in The Seagull (UK tour). His Royal Court credits include Borderline and Colder Climate. Other theatre credits are Happy Days at the Young Vic, Chariots of Fire at the Gielgud and Taming of the Shrew at Shakespeare's Globe.
Jeremiah last appeared at the Royal Court in Truth and Reconciliation. Other theatre credits include Julius Caesar for the RSC.
Brough and Pappas are both making their professional debuts in The Nether.
To book tickets, contact the box office on 020 7565 5000 or visit www.royalcourttheatre.com.
