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The Count of Monte Cristo - NT (Olivier)

Preview by Lizzie Guilfoyle

RICHARD Bean’s adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ classic tale, The Count of Monte Cristo, opens in the National’s Olivier Theatre on November 27, 2012 (previews from November 17) before continuing in repertoire.

A theatrical adventure for family audiences, it will be directed by Timothy Sheader, Artistic Director of Regent Park’s Open Air Theatre, making his National Theatre debut.

Edmond Dantes – illiterate young sailor of Marseilles – is drawn into conspiring with the exiled Napoleon and imprisoned for ten years. Incarcerated in a desolate gaol with no-one but a mad monk for company, Dantes begins an unconventional education.

As his enemies become more powerful, all hope of justice and of a reunion with his sweetheart appears to be gone. Still, Dantes clings to hope. Eventually, his chance comes: he escapes his prison, adopts a disguise and the Count of Monte Cristo is born.

The Count of Monte Cristo will be designed by Katrina Lindsay.

The production is suitable for ages 10 and above, with under 18s half price on top three ticket prices.