Milly Alcock to Star in Old Vic Production of Julie
The Supergirl actress returns to London stage for a modern adaptation of Strindberg's classic.
1Return to London Stage
Milly Alcock has officially joined the cast of Julie, a modern adaptation of August Strindberg’s 1888 play. The production is scheduled to debut at London’s Old Vic theater on April 10 and will run through May. Alcock takes on the titular role in this reimagining of the classic Swedish drama.
2Creative Team Behind Production
The play is being adapted and directed by Rebecca Frecknall, who serves as an associate director at the Old Vic. This specific modern version of the story was originally produced by Internationaal Theater Amsterdam. Frecknall’s direction aims to bring a fresh perspective to the intense narrative of class and sexual politics.
3Plot and Thematic Focus
The narrative centers on an aristocrat’s daughter who encounters her father’s employees, John and Christine, during her 21st birthday celebration. The kitchen setting transforms into a battlefield where reckless flirtation evolves into a merciless contest. All three characters face destructive consequences as their social and personal boundaries are pushed to extremes.
4Alcock’s Theatrical Background
This role marks a return to the stage for Alcock, who previously appeared in a 2023 production of The Crucible at the National Theatre. Known for her work in House of the Dragon, she is now pivoting toward theater following the mixed reception and box office performance of her recent Supergirl project.
5Leadership at Old Vic
Julie is part of a new programming season at the Old Vic, marking the first lineup curated by artistic director Rupert Goold. Goold assumed his position earlier this year, aiming to honor the theater’s legacy of classical repertoire. He emphasizes a commitment to sensational acting within both groundbreaking and accessible stage productions.
6Broader Seasonal Lineup
The theater’s new season includes several notable productions alongside Julie. Damian Lewis is set to star in Shakespeare’s Henry V in January. Additionally, Rupert Goold will direct an adaptation of Stephen Sondheim and John Weidman’s Assassins in June, which explores the lives of various individuals who attempted to assassinate the U.S. President.
7Industry Context and Transitions
The announcement follows significant changes at DC Studios, where CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran are stepping down after Skydance’s acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. Marvel veteran Jeremy Latcham is expected to replace them. These corporate shifts coincide with Alcock’s move to focus on her upcoming stage performance in London.
8Artistic Vision and Legacy
Rupert Goold expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming season, noting that the collection of plays reflects the Old Vic’s rich history. By balancing classical theater with musical revivals, the venue continues to prioritize its storied legacy. This strategic programming choice highlights the theater's ongoing effort to maintain relevance in the modern cultural landscape.
Original article: Variety — Milly Alcock to Star in Old Vic Production of Julie