David Suchet stars in ‘Murder in the Cathedral’ at Richmond church

A new production of T. S. Eliot’s 1935 play, ‘Murder in the Cathedral’, is being staged at St John the Divine Church in Richmond. Directed by Tom Littler for the Orange Tree Theatre, the production stars David Suchet as Archbishop Thomas Becket.

The play depicts the 1170 martyrdom of Becket, who faces death after returning from exile in France to confront King Henry II. The production utilizes the church’s unique setting, incorporating incense, bells, and liturgical elements to explore themes of religion, political authority, and morality.

Critics have noted the production’s atmospheric quality and Suchet’s performance, though some mention the challenging nature of the modernist verse and the ecclesiastical setting.