The first major stage adaptation of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin transfers to the Harold Pinter Theatre this summer following a critically acclaimed UK tour. Based on Louis de Bernières bestselling wartime novel, the show plays from 4 July.
Set during the 1940s German and Italian occupation of Greek island Cephalonia, Captain Corelli’s Mandolin is a classic World War II love story that follows the lives of Dr Iannis, his daughter Pelagia, and enigmatic Italian Captain Antonio Corelli. Featuring a vividly realised cast including islanders and soldiers, this romantic and sweeping show explores the far-reaching effects of war, the love that blooms in adversity, and the power of music.
Louis de Bernières won the 1995 Commonwealth Writer’s Prize – Overall Winner for Best Book for Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, which was adapted for film in 2001, starring Nicolas Cage and Penélope Cruz. Described as a “rich and ambitious piece of theatre” (Time Out), the play has received rave reviews during its UK tour this year.
The show stars Alex Mugnaioni (Shakespeare’s Globe: Twelfth Night, The Taming of the Shrew) as Captain Antonio Corelli, Madison Clare as Pelagia, and Joseph Long (The Life and Death of Peter Sellers) as Dr Iannis.
The book has been adapted for the stage by Rona Munro (The James Plays) and directed by Olivier Award nominee Melly Still (The Lovely Bones, My Brilliant Friend). Other creatives include designer Mayou Trikerioti and composer Harry Blake.
Sink into sweet music and sweeping romance as this beloved novel is brought to life on stage. Captain Corelli’s Mandolin at the Harold Pinter Theatre plays from 4 July, with a gala night on 10 July.
Overall I enjoyed this. I hadn't seen the film but that wasn't necessary to follow the story even though many of the actors played several roles. There was music and singing but I wouldn't describe it as a musical. The choreography / movement aroun Read more