The Royal Shakespeare Company has announced initial casting for its Summer season in the Swan Theatre.

Caroline Quentin plays Lady Fanciful alongside RSC Associate Artists Jonathan Slinger and Alexandra Gilbreath in the cast of John Vanbrugh’s THE PROVOKED WIFE. Directed by Phillip Breen, Vanbrugh’s restoration comedy shocked audiences when it premiered in the 17th century. The production is designed by Mark Bailey, with lighting by Tina MacHugh, music by Paddy Cunneen, sound by Dyfan Jones, Movement by Ayse Tashkiran and fights by Renny Krupinski.

Initial casting has also been revealed for Prasanna Puwanarajah’s new production of Thomas Otway’s VENICE PRESERVED. Jodie McNee returns to the RSC as Belvidera, in a play that follows two disaffected noblemen who join a revolutionary movement to overthrow the corrupt leaders of a failed city state. Puwanarajah makes her directing debut at the RSC having previously appearing as an actor. The production is designed by James Cotterill with lighting design by Jack Knowles, sound by George Dennis, fights by Kate Waters and video by Nina Dunn.

THE PROVOKED WIFE runs at the Swan Theatre from 2nd May to 7th September. VENICE PRESERVED runs in the same theatre from 24th May to 7th September. Tickets for both shows are on sale now.