Harrison Osterfield, the Netflix “The Irregulars” actor, will star alongside playwright Maia Novi in the London transfer of her semi-autobiographical comedy-drama “Invasive Species.”
The piece debuted in New York last year where it created considerable buzz. Eric Kuhn Productions is mounting the U.K. premiere with Michael Breslin, a Pulitzer Prize finalist, once again at the helm.
Novi crafted the work around her own experiences as an Argentine performer chasing Hollywood dreams. The story tracks an immigrant actor willing to risk her sanity for a shot at American cinema stardom. Osterfield will join Novi on stage along with British performers Ella Blackburn, Max Percy and Kalifa Taylor.
“After a thrilling run in New York last summer, I am excited for London audiences to experience Maia’s hilarious and moving play,” Breslin said. “I am also excited to welcome a new company of brilliant U.K. actors into the whip smart, electric, and heartfelt world of ‘Invasive Species.’”
The transfer has secured backing from Lucy Moss, the “Six” co-creator, who comes aboard as co-producer. Additional producing support comes from Salem Productions, John Voege, Amauta M. Firmino and Maria Ines Olmedo, with James Quaife handling general management and executive producing duties.
“‘Invasive Species’ was created by a group of New York’s most dynamic and innovative theatrical artists who are actively defining contemporary American theater,” producer Eric Kuhn said. “We are thrilled to bring this groundbreaking production to the U.K. with a brilliant new cast, and we can’t wait for London audiences to experience this visionary show after its triumphant run Off-Broadway.”
Novi recently appeared in “5 Models in Ruins, 1981” at Lincoln Center before reprising her “Invasive Species” role Off-Broadway.
Osterfield built his profile through the Netflix period mystery series “The Irregulars” before tackling stage work including “Chatroom” and Shakespeare adaptations at White Bear Theatre. His additional screen credits span “The Phoebus Files,” “Catch-22” and the dystopian thriller “Chaos Walking.”
The London staging will feature new design elements from U.K. creatives including set designer Damien Stanton, lighting designer Ben Jacobs and sound designer Dominic Brennan. Carrie Croft serves as production manager. The casting is by Sarah-Jane Price.
King’s Head Theatre provides the venue for the London run. The show opens Sept. 5 and runs through Oct. 3.
Osterfield is represented by United Agents and Podwall Entertainment.
