Kevin Spacey Takes to Old Vic Stage Feb. 1 with National Anthems

By James Inverne
February 1, 2005

Kevin Spacey will venture onstage for the first time since he established his Old Vic Theatre Company when National Anthems begins previews Feb. 1. Mary Stuart Masterson and Steven Weber join Spacey in the cast of Dennis McIntyre’s play.

National Anthems depicts a Detroit suburb in the late 1980’s, where a newly arrived couple are surprised by a visit from a mysterious neighbor. Spacey previously appeared in the play at the Long Wharf Theatre in Connecticut’s New Haven, when his co-stars were Tom Berenger and Mary McDonnell. Spacey reprises his old role of the neighbor, Ben Cook, in London.

Stuart Masterson makes her London stage debut as Leslie Reed. Her New York appearances have included Alice in Wonderland and the revival of Nine, for which she was nominated for a Tony and won a 2003 Theatre World Award. Her many movie credits include “Immediate Family” and “Fried Green Tomatoes.” Steven Weber played Leo Bloom in The Producers on Broadway and co-starred in the TV sitcom "Wings."

Despite having opened the season by himself directing Cloaca, Spacey has relinquished the directorial reins to David Grindley. Another Grindley production, Journey’s End, is currently enjoying a long run in the West End (at the Duke of York’s Theatre). Designs for Anthems are by Jonathan Fensom, sound by Gregory Clarke and lighting by Jason Taylor.

Opening night is set for Feb. 8. The show is scheduled to run until April 23.

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