My Brilliant Friend
Based on the celebrated novels by Elena Ferrante – published in over 50 countries – My Brilliant Friend is an epic story of love, violence, ambition and self-destruction.
When the most important person in her life goes missing without a trace, Lenu Greco, now a celebrated author, begins to recall a relationship of more than 60 years.
First meeting on the dangerous streets of post-war Naples, friends Lila and Lenu experience turbulent social and political change, from the rise of the Camorra to the sexual revolution and the transformation of their neighbourhood, city and nation. Even as life repeatedly tries to pull them in separate directions, they remain inextricably bound to one another.
Following a sold-out run at Rose Theatre Kingston, the acclaimed two-part adaptation by April De Angelis (Jumpy) is reworked for the Olivier stage by Melly Still (Coram Boy). Niamh Cusack and Catherine McCormack return to play Lenu and Lila.
This stage adaptation condenses Ferrante's four Neapolitan Novels into one play presented in two parts (My Brilliant Friend and The Story of a New Name into Part 1; Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay and The Story of the Lost Child into Part 2).
Two-show days
Your ticket will admit you to both Part One at 2pm and Part Two at 7.30pm.
Please note: This production contains gunshots, drug use, and some violent and sexually violent scenes, that some people may find distressing. If you require further information, contact details are provided in our Help centre.
Buy the book
Discover Elena Ferrante’s original novel from our online shop. Every purchase supports the work of the National Theatre.
The Neapolitan Novels are published by Europa Editions.
Talks and events
Love, Honour, Jealousy and Marriage in Italy: 1945 –1970s Wed 8 Jan, 6pm,
Actors Niamh Cusack and Catherine McCormack Fri 10 Jan, 3pm
Making My Brilliant Friend Thu 16 Jan, 10.30am
A Short History of Modern Italy Fri 17 Jan, 6pm
Writer April de Angelis and Director Melly Still, Tue 18 Feb, 6pm
