Lupita Nyong'o to Star Alongside Brother in Central Park's 'Twelfth Night' This Summer

Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o and her brother Junior Nyong’o are set to perform in a highly anticipated production of Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park.

This production, part of the Free Shakespeare in the Park series, will run from August 7 to September 14, with an official premiere scheduled for August 21.
Directed by Saheem Ali, the production features an impressive ensemble cast, including Peter Dinklage as Malvolio, Jesse Tyler Ferguson as Andrew Aguecheek, and Sandra Oh as Olivia. Lupita Nyong’o will take on the role of Viola, while her brother Junior will portray Sebastian, the twin siblings separated by a shipwreck.

Additional cast members include Bill Camp as Sir Toby Belch, Khris Davis as Orsino, Daphne Rubin-Vega as Maria, and Moses Sumney as Feste. Lupita Nyong’o has expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to share the stage with her brother, describing it as “midsummer madness to look forward to.” In an Instagram post, she highlights the long-standing preparation they have both undertaken for these roles, underscoring their strong familial bond.

"Twelfth Night" is among Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies, focusing on the intertwined adventures of Viola and Sebastian, who are separated by a shipwreck. In her quest for safety, Viola disguises herself as a man, setting off a complex series of romantic entanglements involving Duke Orsino and Countess Olivia. The play is celebrated for its themes of mistaken identities, love, and humour.

This production marks the seventh staging of "Twelfth Night" at the Delacorte Theater, following performances in 1969, 1986, 1989, 2002, 2009, and 2018, with the latter being adapted by Public Works. As anticipation for this engagement builds, complete casting details and insights into the design team will be announced in the coming weeks.