Pictured: Natalie Joyce

City Lit Theater has announced the cast and creative team for John Millington Synge’s DEIRDRE OF THE SORROWS, drawn from the legends of ancient Ireland’s great heroine and infrequently produced, DEIRDRE hasn’t been seen in Chicago since 1917.

Directed by Kay Martinovich, the production features Natalie Joyce in the title role, with her lover Naisi played by Alex Pappas. Tim Kidwell will play Conchubor, the King of Ulster, and completing the cast are Curtis Dunn (Ainnle), Andrew Marikis (Owen), Morgan McCabe (Lavarcham), Marssie Mencotti (Old Woman), Mick La Rocca (Ardan), and Mark Pracht (Fergus).

The production team includes Hazel Marie Flowers-McCabe (stage manager), Terry McCabe (artistic director/producer), Liz Cooper (lighting design), Cate Gillespie (dialect coach), Mazi Jurgenson (props designer), Yeaji Kim (set designer), Curtis Powell (sound designer), and Rachel Sypniewski (costume designer).

Deirdre since birth has been promised in wedlock to the King of Ulster because her incomparable beauty was foretold in prophecy. But when she comes of age, she rejects the arranged marriage and flees with her lover, the King’s fierce rival warrior Naisi. In doing so, she tempts war among her people, also foretold in prophecy. A classic tale of romance and treachery, Deirdre, Naisi and all the rest meet their tragic fates.

DEIRDRE OF THE SORROWS is one of the all-time great love stories,” says Martinovich. It’s a beautiful play whose imagery and language are at once powerful and haunting.”

DEIRDRE OF THE SORROWS runs September 1 – October 15 at City Lit, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. For more information visit citylit.org.