La Bete: revival rumored - starring Joanna Lumley

London's Daily Mail columnist, Baz Bamigboye, reports that a revival of David Hirson's comedy drama La Bete, is expected to arrive on Broadway, starring Joanna Lumley ('Patsy' from 'Absolutely Fabulous'), directed by Matthew Warchus.

The revival will premiere in London and will also star David Hyde Pierce ('Niles' from 'Frazier') and Tony Award-winner Mark Rylance (Boeing-Boeing). Baz reports that Lumley will make her Broadway debut when production transfers to Broadway in the Fall. Though it is not reported, one should expect Pierce to also transfer to New York with the production.

Mark Rylance, who is currently receiving rave reiews for his performance in the London production of Jez Butterworth's 'Jerusalem,' is unlikely to star in the Broadway revival of La Bete as he is cast to lead when 'Jerusalem' arrives on the Great White Way later this year.

La Bete: the Molière-inspired story, set in 17th century France, pits dignified, stuffy Elomire, the head of the royal court-sponsored theatre troupe, against the foppish, frivolous street entertainer Valere, whom the troupe's patron, Prince Conti, wishes them to bring aboard. Despite Elomire's violent objections, the company is forced to perform one of Valere's own plays, which results in dramatic changes to the future of Elomire, Valere, and the company itself.

The comedy premiered on Broadway in 1991 and only ran for a total of 40 performances (25 were previews). Directed by Richard Jones, it starred Dylan Baker, Johann Carlo and Michael Cumpsty. The comedy faired better for its London premiere wwinning the 1992 Olivier Award for Best Comedy of the Year.