Heartbreak and laughter in The Beekeeper of Aleppo at Playhouse
An “electric” cast will bring bestselling novel The Beekeeper of Aleppo to life on stage in Nottingham in February.
Following its acclaimed world premiere at Nottingham Playhouse in 2023, this restaging of the story opens at the Playhouse in February before embarking on a national tour in the spring.
Based on the book by Christy Lefteri, the play tells of Nuri, a beekeeper, and his wife Afra, an artist. They live a simple life, rich in family and friends, in the beautiful Syrian city of Aleppo – until the unthinkable happens. When all they care for is destroyed by war, they are forced to escape. On their terrifying journey, they must face the pain of their own loss alongside danger.
Director Anthony Almeida said: “What a thrill to restage this sweeping story with an electric new cast.
"Christy Lefteri’s sensational novel is a clarion call to the everyday – but extraordinary – lives of people who seek a better tomorrow. This is a play full of heart, wit and hardship – and to share these vivid characters with audiences nationwide in 2026 feels ever more urgent. I’m truly excited for how this talented, soulful company of actors will light up the stage.”
The production will feature Adam Sina (whose credits include The Motive and the Cue at the National Theatre and War Horse in the West End) as Nuri, and Farah Saffari (Sex Education, Netflix) as Afra. Joseph Long (Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, West End and UK tour) returns to the role of Mustafa/Moroccan Man, with Aram Mardourian as Nadim/Fotakis/Ali, Alia Lahlou as Dr Faruk/Dahab/Immigration Officer, Princess Khumalo as Angeliki/Lucy Fisher and Dona Atallah as Mohammed/Sami.
Nottingham Playhouse’s artistic director Adam Penford said: “We’re delighted at the return of this emotive play, which so engaged audiences in 2023 and feels even more relevant today. Anthony Almeida will be breathing new life into this beautiful story. We can’t wait to see it revitalised with new cast members and share it with our audiences.”
Martin Dodd, director of production company UK Productions, which is helping bring the story to the stage, said: “Given world events, it has never been more relevant, and following its world premiere in 2023 we were taken aback by the reaction of audiences to each and every performance, with emotions running the full spectrum between laughter and tears.”
The Beekeeper of Aleppo runs from Friday February 7 to Saturday February 28. Call 0115 941 9419 or visit nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk to book.