Irish Rep presents Eugene O'Neill's The Emperor Jones

The Irish Repertory Theatre presents a revival of Eugene O'Neill's The Emperor Jones, directed by Ciarán O'Reilly. Previews begin on March 1, 2017, before an official opening on March 12 and a limited engagement through to April 23, 2017.

Synopsis: "The Emperor Jones is the story of Brutus Jones, a despot who ascends the throne using lies, intimidation and the politics of fear. Following a prison break in the United States, Jones sets himself up as monarch of a Caribbean island. When the Natives rebel after years of exploitation, Jones's mesmerizing journey into darkness becomes a terrifying psychological portrayal of power, fear, and madness. With his demons in heavy pursuit, the Emperor is forced to confront not just the mortal sins of his past but also the depravities against his ancestors—all in search of forgiveness and salvation."

Obi Abili will take on the role of Brutus Jones in the production, with additional casting to be announced at a later date.

Director Ciarán O'Reilly released the following statement:

"The social and political climate of 2017, combined with the immense talent of Obi Abili, implored us to revisit this play, and to do so as soon as possible."

The creative team behind The Emperor Jones features choreography by Barry McNabb, scenic design by Charlie Corcoran, costume design by Antonia Ford Roberts and Whitney Locher, lighting design by Brian Nason, sound design and original music by Ryan Rumery and M. Florian Staab, additional music by Christian Frederickson, and puppet & mask design by Bob Flanagan.

Ciarán O'Reilly previously directed a production of The Emperor Jones in 2009 at Irish Repertory Theatre.

Obi Abili previously appeared in Ivo van Hove's production of Antigone at BAM. His London theatre credits include 'Titus Andronicus' (Shakespeare's Globe), 'Six Degrees of Separation' (Old Vic), 'Sixty-Six Books: Beardy' (Bush Theatre), 'Dido, Queen of Carthage' (National Theatre), 'The Brothers Size' (Young Vic), and 'Angels In America' (Hammersmith Lyric).