The gripping gothic psychological thriller will play as part of the National Theatre's 2026 season and opens in the Spring.
Rakie Ayola, Cherrelle Skeete and Sylvestra Le Touzel in The Authenticator at the National Theatre. Photograpy by Blacksocks
The production reunites the award-winning writer Winsome Pinnock with director Miranda Cromwell following their acclaimed production, Rockets and Blue Lights, which played at the National in 2021.
The Authenticator follows an eccentric artist, Fenella Harford, who, soon after inheriting her family's stately home, discovers a stash of hidden diaries. With the help of young academic Marva and her brilliant but overlooked mentor, Abi, the three women join forces to unearth the truth. However, they will realise that the secrets at the heart of Harford Hall were darker than they could have imagined.
Full casting for the production includes Rakie Ayola as Abi, Sylvestra Le Touzel as Fen and Cherrelle Skeete as Marva.
Joining director Miranda Cromwell in the artistic team is set designer Jon Bausor, costume designer Kinnetia Isidore, lighting designer Aideen Malone, sound designer Tingying Dong, composer Femi Temowo, movement director Shelley Maxwell, casting director Alastair Coomer CDG, voice coach Hazel Holder and staff director Dubheasa Lanipekun.
The Authenticator will play at the Dorfman Theatre from 26 March to 9 May 2026.
