Press Release

The Island by Athol Fugard, John Kani and Winston Ntshona (Antigone by Sophocles)

The Royal National Theatre/Market Theatre Johannesburg Production to play it's final London Season opening at the Old Vic Theatre on Tuesday 22 January.

The Royal National Theatre/Market Theatre Johannesburg Production of "THE ISLAND" by Athol Fugard, John Kani and Winston Ntshona will open at the Old Vic Theatre on Tuesday 22 January for its final London Season. Previews will start on 15 January and the 13-week season will run until 13 April 2002.

Set in the notorious Robben Island prison, "THE ISLAND" is a tribute to the men and women who, with indomitable courage and a longing for freedom, were imprisoned for taking part in the fight for a free and democratic South Africa.

Since its premiere in 1973, "THE ISLAND" has toured internationally to enormous acclaim, winning Tony Awards for its two actors. In 1995 they staged a special performance for Nelson Mandela, who had been a political prisoner on Robben Island for twenty-seven years.

Following an acclaimed season at the Royal National Theatre in Spring 2000, John Kani and Winston Ntshona return to London for a final season of this immensely uplifting and moving play.

With set and costume design by The Company and lighting design by Mannie Manim, "THE ISLAND" is directed by Athol Fugard.

Performance times will be Monday to Saturdays at 8.00pm, with Saturday matinees at 3.00pm. The press night on Tuesday 22 January will be at 7.00pm. Ticket prices range from £12.50 to £30.00 and are available from the Old Vic Box Office on 020 7369 1722.

The Royal National Theatre/Market Theatre Johannesburg Production of "THE ISLAND" is produced by Lee Menzies, Gareth Johnson Limited and Old Vic Productions PLC.