Michelle Dockery, best known for her role as Lady Mary Crawley in the long-running Downton Abbey, will join Tony winner Bryan Cranston in the National Theatre's world premiere of Network, which begins previews November 4 prior to an official opening November 13.
Dockery, who earned an Olivier nomination for her performance in the National's 2009 production of Burnt By the Sun, has been cast in the role of Diana Christenson. Cranston stars as Howard Beale.
Lee Hall’s new adaptation of the Oscar-winning film by Paddy Chayefsky is currently scheduled to run through March 24, 2018. Tony winner Ivo van Hove directs.
In a statement Dockery said, “It's a wonderful feeling to be going back to the National after eight years. To be working with Bryan Cranston and Ivo van Hove on an adaptation of this brilliant film is a rare and exhilarating opportunity, I am thrilled."
The production concerns news anchorman Howard Beale, who isn’t pulling in the viewers. However, after a sudden emotional outpouring during his final broadcast, ratings soar, and the network begins to capitalize on his newfound popularity.
Cranston, most known for his Emmy-winning performance on Breaking Bad, won a Tony for his performance in All the Way in 2014. He was nominated for an Oscar last year for Trumbo.
Network will feature set and lighting design by Jan Versweyveld, video design by Tal Yarden, costume design by An D’Huys, and music and sound design by Eric Sleichim. Network is produced in association with Patrick Myles, David Luff, Ros Povey, and Lee Menzies.
