Linus Roache has stepped away from Welsh National Theatre's production of Owain and Henry due to illness, with actor Nigel Barrett taking over the role of King Henry IV opposite Michael Sheen.
Roache, known for roles in Homeland and Law & Order as well as numerous feature films, was due to play Henry IV in the historical production. His departure was confirmed in a statement from the company on November 10.
Understudy steps in during previews
Previews began on November 5, with Barrett stepping into the role at short notice. On the first night, director Hannah Noone also stepped in at the last minute to read Henry's part. Preview runs are used to refine the show before critics attend the press night, with rehearsals during the day and performances each evening.
Barrett is an award-winning actor who previously worked with Sheen on The Passion, a 72-hour theatrical event staged in Port Talbot over Easter 2011. He has won The Stage Award for best actor and has appeared on television in Casualty and Doctors.
Company confirms Roache's exit
The Welsh National Theatre statement said: "Since opening, the production has had a wonderful audience response, with standing ovations at performances to date."
It continued: "Sadly, Linus Roache has had to step away from Owain and Henry due to illness. Celebrated actor Nigel Barrett will take over the role of Henry from now on. A winner of The Stage Award for Best Actor and the Samuel Beckett Theatre Award, Nigel's stage credits include Hamnet and Julius Caesar for the RSC, Cymbeline at Shakespeare's Globe, and work with the Royal Court, the National Theatre and Complicite. He previously worked alongside Michael Sheen on The Passion for National Theatre Wales, and his screen credits include The Gospel of Us, Casualty and Doctors."
The statement added: "Audiences have already shown their appreciation for Nigel, applauding him for stepping into the role at short notice."
Audience reaction to previews
Attendees shared their experiences on social media. Michelle wrote on Instagram: "It was absolutely phenomenal from start to finish. Unfortunately Linus Roache was unwell and unable to perform, but Nigel Barrett did an exceptional job as King Henry with only 24 hours to prepare!"
ClaireinCardiff commented: "We attended on a preview night, so understandably there were a few minor snags - mostly with the staging. The actor playing Henry IV had also been taken ill so the role was ably played by an understudy drafted in with 24 hrs notice - props to Nigel Barrett."
On Facebook, Sue Bee wrote: "I was at the first preview of Owain and Henry tonight, and wow! This is a massive production, big and bold. A last-minute challenge for the cast as Linus Roache was taken ill so a director stepped in and read Henry's part - but they really pulled it off and got an instant full standing ovation at the end. This is an amazing production."
Owain and Henry is co-directed by Sheen and Steffan Donnelly of Theatr Cymru, and depicts the moment when Welsh-born prince Glyndwr leads a rebellion against the English king in the 1400s. The production runs until November 28, with tickets still available.
