Casting Announced for Terence Rattigan’s In Praise of Love at Orange Tree Theatre
Orange Tree Theatre has announced the full cast for Terence Rattigan's In Praise of Love, set to open on 3 June 2025, with previews starting on 24 May 2025. This production is directed by Amelia Sears, and the cast includes Daniel Abelson (Mark Walters), Joe Edgar (Joey Cruttwell), Claire Price (Lydia Cruttwell), and Dominic Rowan (Sebastian Cruttwell).
About the Play
In Praise of Love takes place in England, 1973, following Lydia, an Estonian refugee, and her husband, Sebastian Cruttwell, a Marxist literary critic. The couple, both veterans of wartime intelligence, are skilled at keeping secrets from each other and from themselves. As their crumbling world begins to unravel, Lydia’s admirer, an American best-selling author, enters the picture and sparks a chain reaction of revelations, exposing the truths that the couple has kept hidden for years.
Written by Terence Rattigan, the play examines the complexities of love, secrets, and family dynamics, offering a poignant look at the fragility of relationships. Loosely inspired by the real-life relationship between actor Rex Harrison and his wife Kay Kendall, the play is both a reflection of personal struggles and a powerful commentary on the human condition.
The cast of In Praise of Love: Daniel Abelson, Joe Edgar, Claire Price, Dominic Rowan.
The Cast
Daniel Abelson plays Mark Walters
Joe Edgar portrays Joey Cruttwell
Claire Price stars as Lydia Cruttwell
Dominic Rowan takes on the role of Sebastian Cruttwell
Director and Creative Team
The play is directed by Amelia Sears, known for her work on Years of Sunlight (Theatre503) and The Girl’s Guide to Saving the World (HighTide Festival). The creative team includes:
Designer: Peter Butler
Lighting Designer: Bethany Gupwell
Sound Designer & Composer: Elizabeth Purnell
Casting Director: Helena Palmer CDG
Production Manager: Pam Nichol
The Playwright: Terence Rattigan
In Praise of Love is Rattigan’s penultimate play, written in the 1970s. Known for his ability to delve into the complexities of human emotions and relationships, Rattigan's works such as French Without Tears, The Winslow Boy, and The Browning Version have cemented his place as one of the 20th century’s most beloved playwrights.
Performance Dates and Tickets
Previews: 24 May – 2 June 2025
Press Night: 3 June 2025
Closing: 5 July 2025
Venue: Orange Tree Theatre, London
