What is the premise of Liz Duffy Adams’ play "Born With Teeth"? How does the historical context of 1591 influence the narrative? In what ways do Ncuti Gatwa and Edward Bluemel’s backgrounds contribute to their roles in the play? What has been the play’s journey prior to its European premiere in London?
"EXCLUSIVE": Doctor Who and Barbie’s Ncuti Gatwa and A Discovery of Witches and Killing Eve’s Edward Bluemel are headed straight into London’s West End for the European premiere of Liz Duffy Adams’ “cheeky, witty and flirty” play Born With Teeth, about an imagined meeting between bad-boy playwright Christopher Marlowe and a then-up-and-coming William Shakespeare.
The two hotshot Elizabethans were like the rock ‘n’ roll stars of their day. The jewel box Wyndham’s Theatre, the much sought after prestigious playhouse smack in the middle of the W.End, may never recover from the combined firepower of Gatwa and Bluemel, who both graduated with honors from Netflix’s Sex Education, which has of late become something of a finishing school for future stars.
Adams’ play is being directed, fittingly, by Royal Shakespeare Company co-artistic director Daniel Evans, who, as it happens, just completed a run playing Marlowe’s Edward II for the RSC at Stratford-upon-Avon. “So I’ve been saying his words for the last eight weeks,” Evans tells me in an exclusive interview.
Born With Teeth is set in 1591, a time when England, under the reign of Elizabeth I, was more like an oppressive police surveillance state with spies and lapsed Catholics and Protestants at every turn. Fear and paranoia abound. There’s a theory that Marlowe himself was a spy working for the crown: He’d already lured and betrayed dramatist Thomas Kyd. Now he wants the upstart Shakespeare under his ink-stained thumb.
Born With Teeth has yet to play New York but has enjoyed much success since it originated at Houston’s Alley Theatre three years ago. The powerful show — which I’ve read but haven’t seen — played across the U.S. from the Guthrie in Minneapolis to the Asolo Repertory Theatre in Florida to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and then on to Berkeley, CA, where it was staged by the Aurora Theater Company in 2023.
Evans tells me that he and Adams have held line-by-line readings of the play and the dramatist has made amendments to her text. “And I dare say we’re treating it as a new play, Liz will keep working on it until opening night,” he says.
It will run at Wyndham’s for a limited 11-week season from August 13-November 1. The production is being produced by Matthew Byam Shaw and partners Nia Janus and Nick Salmon for Playful Productions, the RSC and Broadway’s Elizabeth Williams.
If all goes well in London’s theatre-land, it’s likely to rock New York in 2026 or 2027, although Byam Shaw stresses that “there’s always a hope” of New York “but, first of all, let’s have a successful season at Wyndham’s and not get too big for our boots.”
However, he’s a canny dude and knows the lay of the land in NYC. After all, Playful, which he founded 15 years ago with Janis and Salmon, has a history of taking productions such as The Audience (which led to Netflix hit The Crown) and Frost/Nixon — both penned by Peter Morgan — to Broadway.
For NYC, says Byam Shaw, “it needs razor-sharp actors and a razor-sharp production and then I think the play will fly there.” And it has all those qualities in Gatwa, Bluemel and Evans.
Byam Shaw and his colleagues at Playful are also working with producer and theatre owner Nica Burns on The Fifth Step, starring Martin Freeman and Jack Lowden at @sohoplace theatre in the W.End, and on many other shows which they either produce or general manage.
Without wishing to sound “twee,” Byam Shaw is of the view that Marlowe and Shakespeare “were the rock stars of their day.”
“Not only that,” he continues, “Marlowe died at 27 like Jimi Hendrix and all the rest of them, and therefore, there’s a really interesting story there.”
(To clarify: Marlowe was 29, but the point’s well made.)
Evans and Byam Shaw have collaborated on many shows before, plus Byam Shaw was on the panel that interviewed the actor-turned-director for his current post at the RSC, a job he shares with Tamara Harvey.
In the play, Marlowe and Shakespeare, the two preeminent writers of their generation, are thrown together in a secluded tavern to work on what would become Shakespeare’s history cycle trilogy Henry VI. “It’s cheeky, witty and flirty,” says Evans because “you get both of their personalities. Marlowe, the kind of star of the age, wildly flamboyant, and very naughty.
“And you get Shakespeare who’s at the start of his career, sort of quite shy, sometimes a bit diffident, but every now and then there’s a real glint of ambition,” Evans observes.
“When you think of who Marlowe is, the danger of him, the wit of him, the energy of him. There is no better person than Ncuti. His charisma as an actor, his humor as an actor, his power as an actor. It’s everything that this script demands,” Evans states.
“It’s a kind of great sensuality that he has, and that’s Marlowe,” he beams. “And so I’m really overjoyed to be working with him,” he says as he cites how he was “blown away” when he saw him early on in Sex Education but also recently at the National Theatre in a pantomime-inspired production of The Importance of Being Earnest.
Gatwa returns for the new season of Doctor Who on Saturday, April 12, on BBC One, BBC iPlayer and Disney+.
Evans enthuses equally over Bluemel’s “brilliant TV work” which also includes We Might Regret This, My Lady Jane and Belgravia: The Next Chapter. The actor’s now starring with Mia McKenna-Bruce, Freeman, and Helena Bonham-Carter in Netflix’s lavish country house series The Seven Dials Mystery. It’s written by Broadchurch’s Chris Chibnall and directed by Chris Sweeney (The Tourist) and executive produced by The Crown’s Suzanne Mackie and Chris Sussman (Good Omens).
“Edward has amazing sensitivity for this part,” Evans relays.
“He has a kind of incredible charm, likeability, and also very intelligent. So again, for our play, he really suits Shakespeare at the beginning of his career. Clearly being able to admire Marlowe and see what Marlowe’s doing. And thinking all the time, ‘Oh, I might be able to out-Marlowe Marlowe.’ So the two of them together, honestly, it’s a really thrilling combination.”
Full rehearsals start in July. The production’s designed by Olivier Award-winning Joanna Scotcher, lighting design by Olivier- and Tony-winning Neil Austin. Casting director is Charlotte Sutton. Negotiations for other members of the creative team are ongoing.
The RSC’s currently enjoying a hit at the Gillian Lynne Theatre with a transfer of the utterly charming My Neighbour Totoro, based on Studio Ghibli’s animated classic.
There are also efforts to bring Edward II — with Evans starring — into London.
But right now, he’s pretty busy.
Ncuti Gatwa and Edward Bluemel to Star in ‘Born With Teeth’ in West End: A New Venture in Theatre
The West End, known for its rich tapestry of theatrical masterpieces, is set to welcome an exciting new production with the much-anticipated debut of ‘Born With Teeth.’ This compelling play not only promises to captivate audiences but also marks the collaboration of two talented actors, Ncuti Gatwa and Edward Bluemel, who are rapidly emerging as prominent figures in the contemporary theatrical landscape.
Introduction to ‘Born With Teeth’
‘Born With Teeth,’ a new play by the celebrated playwright and screenwriter, is an exploration of human relationships, identity, and the complexities of life. The narrative, steeped in both humor and poignancy, promises to strike a chord with audiences, compelling them to reflect on their own lives and choices. Set against the backdrop of modern society, the play offers a unique lens through which to examine the intricacies of personal and communal existence.
This production’s arrival in the heart of London is a timely reminder of the power of theater to provoke thought and inspire change. With its bold themes and relatable characters, ‘Born With Teeth’ is poised to be a resonant addition to the West End’s repertoire.
Ncuti Gatwa: A Rising Star
Ncuti Gatwa has garnered considerable acclaim for his vibrant performances and dynamic presence in the entertainment industry. Best known for his role as Eric Effiong in the critically acclaimed Netflix series ‘Sex Education,’ Gatwa has captured the hearts of audiences with his charm, charisma, and compelling character work. His portrayal of Eric—a queer, fashion-forward teen navigating the complexities of adolescence—has not only showcased his acting prowess but has also highlighted important issues surrounding identity and acceptance.
Gatwa’s transition from screen to stage with ‘Born With Teeth’ is an exciting development, as he brings a fresh energy to the theater world. His infectious enthusiasm and commitment to his craft promise to create a magnetic stage presence that will engage and entertain audiences. This play marks a significant step in Gatwa’s career, demonstrating his versatility as an actor.
Edward Bluemel: The Other Half of the Duo
Joining Gatwa on stage is Edward Bluemel, another burgeoning talent whose performances have made waves in television and film. Bluemel is known for his roles in ‘Pennyworth’ and ‘The Last Kingdom,’ where he showcased his range as an actor through intense and varied character portrayals. His commitment to his work and ability to evoke genuine emotion in his performances have established him as a recognized talent in the industry.
In ‘Born With Teeth,’ Bluemel complements Gatwa’s character, creating a dynamic interplay that promises to resonate with the audience. The chemistry between the two actors is expected to be one of the production’s highlights, as they navigate the complexities of their characters’ relationships throughout the play. Bluemel’s thoughtful approach to his roles, combined with Gatwa’s exuberance, is set to create a rich theatrical experience.
A Thematic Exploration
The themes explored in ‘Born With Teeth’ are particularly relevant in today’s society. The play delves into the nuances of human connection, the challenges of identity, and the often turbulent journey of self-discovery. With societal norms constantly evolving, the narrative encourages audience members to reflect on their relationships, their personal growth, and the societal constructs that influence them.
Gatwa and Bluemel, through their performances, will undoubtedly add depth to these themes, inviting viewers to engage emotionally with the story. Their characters will likely face trials and tribulations that mirror the struggles many face in real life, making the performance all the more relatable and impactful.
The West End and Its Significance
The West End holds a prestigious place in the world of theater, often serving as a benchmark for quality productions. The decision to debut ‘Born With Teeth’ in such a renowned venue underscores the significance of the play and the hopes attached to it. As audiences flock to experience this upcoming production, the involvement of Gatwa and Bluemel is likely to draw in dedicated fans from their respective projects, thereby broadening the audience base.
The collaborative effort between accomplished playwrights, dynamic actors, and visionary directors contributes to the rich ecosystem of British theater. The impact of ‘Born With Teeth’ extends beyond mere entertainment, aiming to spark conversations about vital social issues and the intricacies of human life.
Conclusion
As Ncuti Gatwa and Edward Bluemel prepare to take to the stage in ‘Born With Teeth,’ excitement and anticipation are building. Their combined talent and commitment, alongside a compelling narrative, promise to create a theatrical experience that will resonate with audiences long after the curtain falls. With the West End serving as the backdrop for this debut, ‘Born With Teeth’ is poised to become a thought-provoking and memorable addition to London’s illustrious theater scene, marking a significant moment in the careers of both Gatwa and Bluemel.
Ncuti Gatwa and Edward Bluemel have been announced as the stars of the upcoming West End production “Born With Teeth.” The play, which has generated considerable excitement, showcases the talents of both actors and promises an engaging theatrical experience. Gatwa, known for his dynamic performances, particularly in “Sex Education,” and Bluemel, recognized for his work in various film and television projects, are expected to bring depth to their roles. The production aims to explore themes of identity, human connection, and the complexities of modern life, making it a highly anticipated event in London’s vibrant theater scene.