The Almeida theatre today announced that Matt Smith, who made his name on stage before becoming the youngest incarnation of the Doctor, will take the lead role of Patrick Bateman in a new musical thriller adaptation of the 1991 novel American Psycho.
The production will be directed by Rupert Goold in his first production in charge of the Islington venue, having developed the show with his former company, Headlong.
Smith said he was “excited” to be part of the eagerly anticipated premiere.
“The opportunity to work with Rupert Goold, a director of great vision and flair, combined with the brilliant story and music, seemed like such a cool challenge,” he said.
Goold said: “Matt Smith is a wonderful stage performer and the perfect actor not only to lead our exceptional cast but also my first show as artistic director here at the Almeida.”
American Psycho divided critics with its graphic violence and sadistic sex set against the backdrop of the Wall Street boom of the Eighties. It has been previously filmed with British actor Christian Bale in the anti-hero lead role.
American Psycho will run at the Almeida from 3rd December 2013 to 1st February, 2014
www.almeida.co.uk
Updated 31st December 2013
