The new production begins performances July 7, prior to an official opening July 15, for a run through Sept. 26. Arden will play the role of Alex Dillingham, a young student travelling through France, who falls in love with the alluring actress Rose Vibert (to be played by Katherine Kingsley), in this musical version of the David Garnett novella. As the pair embark on a passionate affair, the unexpected arrival of Alex’s uncle changes their lives forever. The show is described in press materials as a love story spanning 20 years, binding six people and three generations as they come to appreciate that love changes everything.
The role of Alex was originated in the show's 1989 London premiere at the Prince of Wales Theatre by Michael Ball, who then went on to make his Broadway debut in the role in 1990 at the Broadhurst Theatre. Arden, who plays the role now, made his Broadway debut as Tom Sawyer in the revival of Big River in 2003, and more recently he was seen in the short-lived The Times They Are A-Changing, Twyla Tharp's dance musical based on the music of Bob Dylan. Off-Broadway his credits include Swimming in the Shallows, Bare, Ace, God of Vengeance, As You Like It, The Winter’s Tale and The Secret Garden. His TV and film credits include "Bones," "Numbers" and "Grey’s Anatomy" as well as "Bride Wars" and "The Good Shepherd."
Kingsley can currently be seen in The 39 Steps on U.K. tour. Her other theatre credits include Piaf for the Donmar Warehouse and at the Vaudeville Theatre for which she was nominated for an Olivier Award, The Truth Will Out for the Old Vic, The Black and White Ball at the King’s Head Theatre, Hobson’s Choice for the Chichester Festival Theatre, High Society at the Shaftesbury Theatre and on U.K. tour and The Canterbury Tales for Bristol Old Vic. Her television credits include "The Bill," "Hollyoaks" and "Casualty." Her film credits include "Weekend," "Days of the Siren" and "100 Second Marriage."
Nunn previously directed A Little Night Music at the Menier Chocolate Factory, which subsequently transferred to the West End's Garrick Theatre and is now running at Broadway's Walter Kerr. As well as the original production of Aspects of Love, Nunn has also directed the original West End productions of Lloyd Webber's Cats, Starlight Express, Sunset Bouelvard and The Woman in White, all of which also transferred to Broadway.
Further casting is still to be announced. Tickets, which go on sale May 18 at noon British Summer Time, are available from the box office on 020 7907 7060, or visit www.menierchocolatefactory.com.
