How do you cast the next James Bond? pick a random actor, man or choose to embark on a journey of stereotypical negotiation, whilst battling egos and judgemental decision making you might say no easy task. Come in A Role to Die for the Marylebone Theatre ‘has been expecting you’. Don your black dinner attire and join HQ and become an insider to the best kept secret ever, who will be the next Bond.
Jordan Waller’s play written five years ago was based on his personal experience of having casting difficulties, “when a famous actor and Knight of the realm pulled out last minute and ruined everything “. From a flippant remark of thank God they weren’t casting James Bond! A Role to Die For was created a perfect subject for a play. Waller’s exploratory process of Bond was one of tradition, politics, and legacy.
This play hits the ground running with grit determination from the opening scenes in HQ, the office adorned by pictures of the old classic 007’s filled the theatre with nostalgia and quintessential British/American drama. Casting Tanya Franks as Deborah a “savage gutsy” woman who is faithful to her late father and the brand of Bond; Quinn her gay son Harry Goodson-Bevan battles with his desires for his mother’s attention whilst exerting his own moral values of sexuality, change in ideology of the Bond brand, promoting and embracing a change in tradition by introducing Theo Obioma Ugoala a black gay actor with every bit of 007 charisma. Malcolm Philip Bretherton the highly strung business associate has other ideas, watch and be thrilled.
This comedic play has threads of feminism, homophobia and satirical pokes of fun at the stereotypical character of Bond whilst making the valid point that 007 ‘the brand’ needs to consider and reflect on its future, moving away from traditional ideology. The cast gel like glue, with classic ‘007’ lines and feisty business talk. I was questioning is this how the Broccoli family really choose a Bond, now wouldn’t that make for good theatre.
Smart writing, sublime directing by Bond oh the irony. This is a diamond of a play and one that will go on forever. Bravo to Waller, the production and executive team for keeping 007 a part of theatrical history.
Play by Jordan Waller
Executive Producer Ramin Sabi & Emily Lunnon
Directed Olivier Award Winning Derek Bond
This show commences at 7.30 pm – 9.15 approximately 20 minute interval
Runs 26th July – August 30th, 2025
Booking Link https://tickets.marylebonetheatre.com
Reviewer: Michelle Knight
Reviewed: 31st July 2025
North West End UK Rating: