There may be no Brad Pitt but theatre-goers will be treated to a mix of Greek mythology and supermodel hotness ahead of a Troy premier at Manchester’s Royal Exchange.
Famous Greek poet Homer’s epic The Iliad has been adapted to stage and will star model Lily Cole.
The iconic poem has been reworked into a play, The Last Days of Troy, by poet Simon Armitage and tells the tale of two ancient civilisations at war.
Armitage has described The Iliad as ‘a great action story’ and one that draws parallels with contemporary politics.
“The Iliad is tense and intriguing, with moments of great tragedy and breath-taking humility,” said Armitage.
“Everything we have come to expect of the great myths.”
The appropriately stunning Ms Cole will take the role of Helen of Troy as she is set to make her full-stage debut.
The 26-year-old has featured in several films including St. Trinians, Snow White and Huntsman and a one-off appearance in Doctor Who.
In the mythical tale, Helen is said to be the most beautiful woman in the world or, more famously, the face that launched a thousand ships.
As the wife of the King of Sparta in Greek mythology, her abduction by lover Paris is said to be the cause of the bloody Trojan War.
Armitage’s theatrical remake completes the tale and brings that war to a brutal conclusion.
The 2004 film Troy, starring Brad Pitt, is probably the most notable film of the tale despite mixed reviews.
In his retelling, Armitage promises tragedy, intrigue and ‘everything we have come to expect of the great myths’.
The Last Days of Troy opens this Thursday in Manchester, before moving onto Shakespeare’s Globe theatre in London.
The play can be seen at the Royal Exchange theatre from May 8 until June 7.
Tickets are available here.
