Michael Wynne's 'Cuckoo' announces initial cast

This production, based on a matriarchal household in Merseyside, premieres at London's Royal Court Theatre on 6 July running to 19 August with a fully Scouse cast.

The dark comedy play Cuckoo has announced its initial cast ahead of its summer premiere.

Scouse actresses Michelle Butterly, Emma Harrison, Sue Jenkins and Jodie McNee will star in this production set in the playwright's hometown, Birkenhead.

The Olivier and BAFTA-Award winning playwright, Michael Wynne, was born in the Merseyside town and said in a statement, " We’re taking Sloane Square to Birkenhead and it’s going to be great to have the Liverpool dialect on stage - with a fully authentic all-Scouse cast."

Cuckoo follows a three-generation matriarchal family all living under one roof and how they cope with their varying issues in an increasingly uncertain world.

"They’re dealing with financial insecurity, economic decline, all pervasive technology and the potential impact of climate change - amongst other things." Wynne said. "I was interested in exploring how different generations discuss issues and how having opposing opinions has become much more fraught - even within close families."

Cuckoo, directed by Vicky Featherstone, runs from 6 July to 19 August at the Royal Court Theatre, and then transfers to Liverpool's Everyman Theatre from 6 to 23 September.

This is Wynne's 8th play at the Royal Court. His other titles include Living Newspaper Edition 4, Who Cares and The Red Flag.

Check back for information on Cuckoo tickets on London Theatre.

Photo credit: Cuckoo. (Photo courtesy of production)