A topical opera set in the world of American politics opens at the Maltings Theatre next week on the same day as the US Presidential election.

Herts Advertiser: Camilla Kerslake and Rodney Earl Clarke star in opera On Behalf of a Madman at the Maltings Theatre in St Albans. Picture: suppliedCamilla Kerslake and Rodney Earl Clarke star in opera On Behalf of a Madman at the Maltings Theatre in St Albans. Picture: supplied (Image: supplied)

On Behalf of a Madman can be seen at the St Albans theatre from Tuesday, November 3.

When footage from a West Wing staff party at the White House is leaked to a major TV news channel, the President goes on the warpath.

Staffers scheme and squabble amid the misleading headlines while politicians exploit the turmoil for their own ends.

Director Julia Mintzer said: “We’re so excited to put on On Behalf of a Madman at the Maltings Theatre.

Herts Advertiser: On Behalf of a Madman director Julia Mintzer with her writing partner Charles Ogilvie. Picture: Pavel GoneskiOn Behalf of a Madman director Julia Mintzer with her writing partner Charles Ogilvie. Picture: Pavel Goneski (Image: Pavel Goneski)

“The show has had quite a journey from Italy to Boston and now back to the UK, and we’re very glad it has landed in front of the Maltings Theatre’s audiences.

“I loved coming to St Albans during the summer to see shows in the amazing Roman Theatre and am grateful for the chance to direct in one of the few theatres now bravely producing work.”

With a script by Charles Ogilvie, the opera runs until Saturday, November 7 with performances at 7.30pm.

It is based on a concept originated by the American period-instrument ensemble Grand Harmonie in 2018, and woven together from 18th and 19th century plots with new dialogue.

Herts Advertiser: Camilla Kerslake stars as News Anchor in opera On Behalf of a Madman at the Maltings Theatre in St Albans. Picture: suppliedCamilla Kerslake stars as News Anchor in opera On Behalf of a Madman at the Maltings Theatre in St Albans. Picture: supplied (Image: supplied)

On Behalf of a Madman will make you see today’s politics from a totally new vantage point.

The St Albans cast includes Classic Brit nominated Camilla Kerslake, Rodney Earl Clarke (Les Miserables) and Lizzie Holmes (Grange Park Opera).

Visit the Maltings website at www.maltingstheatre.co.uk for tickets.

Herts Advertiser: Rodney Earl Clarke plays the US President in On Behalf of a Madman at the Maltings Theatre in St Albans. Picture: Pavel GoneskiRodney Earl Clarke plays the US President in On Behalf of a Madman at the Maltings Theatre in St Albans. Picture: Pavel Goneski (Image: Pavel Goneski)