Samantha Barks lands role in Mozart film alongside James Purefoy

It has been announced that West End actress Samantha Barks will star alongside James Purefoy in Mozart drama Interlude in Prague.

London-based Carnaby will handle worldwide rights for the film, which will be presented to buyers at Berlin’s European Film Market. Filming is set to begin in Prague this April.

Directed by John Stephenson with a screenplay by Brian Ashby, Interlude in Prague is produced by Productive International’s Huw Penallt Jones along with Hannah Leader. Cinematography is by Michael Brewster with production design by Oscar winner Luciana Arrighi. Hybrid’s Charlotte Truman is composer and music producer.

Set in Prague in 1787, the film is “an intense and emotional narrative of love, lust and murder.” Based on true-life events, it follows the story of a few turbulent months in the short life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart that influenced the creation of the opera Don Giovanni.

Producer Huw Penallt Jones said: "Interlude in Prague combines all the beauty of 18th-century Bohemia with the glory of Mozart’s music. Brian has written a powerful script and the passions, characters, heartbreak and tragic outcome are just as relevant to today’s contemporary audiences around the world. With John at the helm, it’s going to be a beautiful picture."

Earlier this week it was announced that Barks will embark on a solo concert tour this June following the release of her debut album. She will also play the St James Studio on 2nd April. Barks is also set to star in new musical movie Strike.

Last year Barks won acclaim on the U.S. stage for her performance as the title role in the world premiere of musical Amélie at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre. Amélie is currently aiming for a Broadway transfer, but no further details or casting have been confirmed. 

Best known for finishing as a runner-up on BBC1's I'd Do Anything and starring as Éponine inTom Hooper's film adaptation of Les Miserables, Barks' theatre credits include: Mallory/Avril inCity Of Angels (Donmar), Velma Kelly in Chicago (Hollywood Bowl), Nancy in Oliver! (UK Tour), Éponine in Les Miserables (West End / 25th Anniversary Concert) and Sally Bowles in Cabaret.Her upcoming film projects include Bitter Harvest and A Hundred Streets.