A BRAND new production of The Best Man, Gore Vidal’s acclaimed drama about ambition, political scandal, ruthlessness and the race for the White House, is set to play the Theatre Royal Bath with a stellar cast led by Martin Shaw (Judge John Deed, Inspector George Gently, The Professionals).

Appearing from Monday, October 9-Saturday, October 14, the company also features Gemma Jones (Spooks, Bridget Jones’ Diary, Harry Potter films), Jeff Fahey (Lost), Jack Shepherd (Wycliffe, Bill Brand), Glynis Barber (Dempsey and Makepeace, EastEnders), Honeysuckle Weeks (Foyle’s War) and Anthony Howell (Foyle’s War).

As the repercussions from the recent American and UK elections rumble on, Vidal’s drama of dirty politics never seemed more real or relevant.

At a time of political chaos, The Best Man mirrors the often surprising results of campaigning and the unscrupulous world of politics.

Neck and neck in a fierce battle for the nomination, the only thing that separates two opposing presidential party candidates, William Russell, the esteemed former Secretary of State (played by Martin Shaw) and Joseph Cantwell, his newcomer populist opponent (Jeff Fahey) are endorsements from a respected former President (Jack Shepherd) and party big-wig (Gemma Jones).

As the race heats up the campaigns gets personal, involving Russell’s estranged wife Alice (Glynis Barber) and Cantwell’s wife Mabel (Honeysuckle Weeks) whilst drawing on all the resources of Russell’s campaign manager (Anthony Howell). But where does compromise end and corruption begin?

How far will the two candidates go to be the most powerful leader in the world and who in the end will prove to be “the best man”?

The Best Man is directed by Simon Evans whose credits include The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui and Silence of the Seas at the Donmar Warehouse; Rubber Room at London’s Old Vic and Madness in Valencia at Trafalgar Studios. Simon has also worked as Resident Assistant Director at the Donmar Warehouse.

  •  Tickets for The Best Man are on sale at the Theatre Royal Bath Box Office on 01225 448844 and via www.theatreroyal.org.uk