By Gina Yarbrough
San Diego, CA–Cygnet Theatre has announced the cast and creative team for its upcoming production of Arcadia, the acclaimed drama by renowned playwright Tom Stoppard. Directed by Sean Murray, the production will run July 15 through Aug. 9 in the Dottie Studio Theater.
Set within a single English country estate, Arcadia weaves together two timelines separated by nearly 200 years. In 1809, a gifted young student challenges conventional thinking as she explores mathematics, desire and the mysteries of the universe alongside her tutor. In the present day, a group of scholars investigates the estate’s history, uncovering clues that connect the past and present in unexpected ways.
Blending humor, romance, science and philosophy, the play explores humanity’s enduring search for truth and understanding. Widely regarded as one of the greatest works of modern theater, Arcadia is often considered Stoppard’s masterpiece.
Stoppard, celebrated for his intellectually rich and emotionally resonant plays, died in late 2025 at the age of 88. His works continue to be staged worldwide, with productions taking on renewed significance following his passing.
“It excites me to be working on Arcadia again,” Murray said. “It’s been almost twenty years since I had the opportunity to bring this amazing show to our stage before. It’s the kind of piece of theatre that continues to inspire, reveal and illuminate.”
Murray described the production as “funny, sexy, stimulating, romantic and vast,” offering audiences “a full evening of mind-expanding joy.”
The cast includes Richard Baird as Bernard Nightingale, Manny Fernandes as Richard Noakes, Marti Gobel as Hannah Jarvis, Harper Haden as Thomasina Coverly, Luca Hansen as Gus/Augustus Coverly, Fred Harlow as Ezra Chater, Byron LaDue as Jellaby, Melanie Lora as Lady Croom, Corydon Melgoza as Septimus Hodge, Paul Morgavo as Captain Brice, Emily Nightingale as Chloë Coverly and Tanner Vydos as Valentine Coverly.
The production’s creative team includes Heather Larsen, scenic designer; Chris Rynne, lighting designer; George Yé, sound designer; Elizsa Benzoni, costume designer; Peter Herman, wig and makeup designer; Bonnie Durben, props designer; Vanessa Dinning, dialect consultant; Mars Lorens, stage manager; and Brian Salvanera, assistant stage manager.
Tickets and additional information are available through Cygnet Theatre’s website.
Cygnet Theatre is located at 2880 Roosevelt Road in Arts District Liberty Station.
