Nation

Go on an adventure into the unknown as Mark Ravenhill's adaptation of Terry Pratchett's novel, Nation, makes its world premiere at London's National Theatre.

Nation at London's National Theatre

Nation is based on the latest novel by one of the UK's best-selling authors, Terry Pratchett – the creator of the epic Discworld series.

Pratchett's witty yet challenging adventure story has been adapted for the stage by cutting-edge playwright Mark Ravenhill.

Nation was published in 2008 and has been longlisted for The Guardian Children's Fiction Prize for 2009.

The new stage production is suitable for ages 10 and over.

About Terry Pratchett's Nation

Terry Pratchett is known for his amazing fantasy creations and Nation is no exception, with the scene set in a parallel world in 1860.

The lives of two teenagers collide following a tsunami, which destroys Mau's village and leaves Daphne shipwrecked on his island in the South Pacific.

Neither speaks the other's language, yet together they fight to survive – and build a new nation.

Along the way they encounter new challenges, from Daphne delivering a baby and milking a pig, to Mau fighting cannibal Raiders – all overseen by their foul-mouthed parrot companion.

The Cast: Gary Carr and Emily Taaffe

Playing Mau is Gary Carr, who has appeared in Dido, Queen of Carthage at the National Theatre as well as in TV shows such as Foyle's War, Law & Order, Silent Witness and Holby City.

Emily Taaffe, who takes on the role of Daphne, has played in The House of Special Purpose (Chichester Festival Theatre), Rock'n'Roll (Manchester Library Theatre) and Three Sisters (Abbey Theatre, Dublin).

Stage Adaptation by Mark Ravenhill

Mark Ravenhill has previously written three plays for the National Theatre's Connections programme for teenagers: Citizenship, Scenes from Family Life and Totally Over You.

His other plays include Shoot/Get Treasure/Repeat, The Cut, Some Explicit Polaroids, Mother Clap's Molly House, and Shopping and F**king.