As anticipation mounts for the newest instalment of The James Plays, we are delighted to announce the full cast and creative team who will bring the next part in this extraordinary cycle of plays to life. This chapter reveals the vibrant cultural mix of the Scottish court, enriching our understanding of our nation’s history.
Blythe Duff (Taggart, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) and Daniel Cahill (All My Sons, River City) return to The James Plays as Dame Phemy and James IV.
They’re joined by Danielle Jam (Them!, Molly and Mack) and Laura Lovemore (Queen of the New Year, Life is a Dream) as Ellen and Anne, two high-born Moorish women who take their place in the royal court.
The cast is completed by Ewan Black (Turnbull/Fighter/Ensemble), Malcolm Cumming (Donald), Keith Fleming (Dunbar), Sarita Gabony (Margaret), Thierry Mabonga (Peter), Samuel Pashby (Douglas/Ensemble), Gameli Tordzro (Ensemble/Musician).
As previously announced, in autumn 2022 Rona Munro returns to Scottish stages with a bold new production: James IV – Queen of the Fight, directed by Laurie Sansom – the formidable duo who brought us James I, II and III. As anticipation mounts we are delighted to announce the full cast and creative team who will bring the next part in this extraordinary cycle of plays to life. This chapter reveals the vibrant cultural mix of the Scottish court, enriching our understanding of our nation’s history.
"I’m excited to perform in the next chapter of this incredible story and I hope to honour Ellen’s journey as much as she deserves."Danielle Jam, Ellen
"I am beyond buzzed to be part of the James legacy! Can’t wait to share this story with everyone."Laura Lovemore, Anne
Rona Munro’s vividly imagined trilogy has already brought to life three generations of Stewart kings who ruled Scotland in the tumultuous fifteenth century to the acclaim of audiences and critics from Scotland to Auckland. They were acknowledged as a landmark event in Scottish and UK theatre. Now comes James IV with Laurie Sansom directing once more.
Writer Rona Munro and Director Laurie Sansom are reunited with Designer Jon Bausor who also worked on the first three plays; and joined by Venus ex Machina as Composer. British Historian Dr Onyeka Nubia has been working as a historical consultant on the project. The team is completed by Movement Director Neil Bettles, Sound Designer Garry Boyle, Casting Director Laura Donnelly CDG, Associate Director (Rehearsals) Jaïrus Obayomi, Associate Director (Tour) Luke Kernaghan, and Lighting Designer Lizzie Powell.
"With this bridge to the original trilogy, the momentum of the of plays is going to be carried through into this next chapter."Daniel Cahill, James IV
"I can’t wait to be back in the rehearsal room... I feel sure the audience are ready too."Blythe Duff, Dame Phemy
James IV: Queen of the Fight comes to the Festival Theatre from 30 September, before embarking on a national tour. Tickets available here.