Rylance cancels performances to attend his brother’s funeral
PERFORMANCES OF the West End show Jerusalem have been cancelled following the death of Sir Mark Rylance’s brother in a cycling accident.
The Oscar-winning actor said in a statement that his brother, Jonathan Waters, was knocked off his bike last month and later died from his injuries.
Sir Mark said three forthcoming performances of the play today and tomorrow have had to be cancelled so he can attend the funeral in California, as there is no understudy for his lead role of Johnny ‘Rooster’ Byron.
The 62-year-old said in a statement: “I am so sorry to tell you that on May 28 my dear brother Jonathan Waters was knocked from his bicycle and tragically died of his injuries.
“In order to attend his funeral in California, I unfortunately
have to miss three performances of Jerusalem over Saturday June 11 - Sunday June 12.
“As I have no understudy as Rooster Johnny Byron, sadly these performances have been cancelled.
“Sonia Friedman Productions, together with Nimax, are arranging additional performances at the end of the scheduled run to try and accommodate everyone who will be affected.
“I hope you understand my need to grieve my beloved brother, and thank you for your support at this time. I hope you will be able to attend another performance of Jerusalem.”
Sonia Friedman Productions, Nimax and the company of Jerusalem offered their support and thoughts to Sir Mark at this time.
Additional performances have been added on Tuesday August 9 and Wednesday August 10 to accommodate those who were due to attend the cancelled performances.
Organisers have said all affected customers will have exclusive access to exchange their tickets on a first come, first served basis.