Kathryn Hunter, Toby Jones, Fiona Shaw and more to star in 'ECHO' at Royal Court

They are the first of 15 artists to take part in this new work, which will see performers take to the stage unrehearsed and unprepared each night.

Kathryn Hunter, Toby Jones, Fiona Shaw, Meera Syal, and Rebecca Lucy Taylor (Self Esteem) will be the first artists to perform in the world premiere of ECHO (Every Cold-Hearted Oxygen), which opens at the Royal Court's Jerwood Theatre Downstairs in London on 13 July.

They are the first of 15 artists to take part in this new work from Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour (White Rabbit, Red Rabbit, NASSIM) and director Omar Elerian (NASSIM, Misty, two Palestinians go dogging), which will see a different performer take to the stage at each show, completely unprepared for what they will be asked to do. The script will be their guide as they journey through the story of the playwright, who will join the show live from his flat in Berlin.

Kathryn Hunter (Poor Things) said: “I am excited to be a part of project ECHO for LIFT at the Royal Court. Working with Omar Elerian on Ionesco’s The Chairs was both hugely inspiring and challenging; a leap into the unknown; this project promises to be no less, for performers and audience alike.”

Meera Syal said: “I had the pleasure of working with Nassim Soleimanpour on Red Rabbit White Rabbit and it is simply a unique theatrical adventure for both actor and audience. Delighted to be included in the next journey at the Royal Court with the extraordinary talents of Nassim and Omar Elerian.

"Have no idea what is going to happen - but that’s the magical buzz of this experience. Can’t wait.”

Cabaret's Rebecca Lucy Taylor said: “Alarmingly my gut is telling me to choose interesting and challenging projects when it comes to my acting career. I am honoured and terrified to be asked to be a part of this insanely special event. The fear is so loud that I know it's the right thing to do!”

Book ECHO tickets on London Theatre.

Photo credit: Kathryn Hunter, Toby Jones, and Fiona Shaw. (Photos courtesy of production)