Matt Maltese has been revealed as the composer for Royal Shakespeare Company's upcoming Twelfth Night production

Matt Maltese is gearing up to make his stage composition debut for the Royal Shakespeare Company.

He's written original music - including an exclusive Christmas song - for their upcoming production of Twelfth Night at Stratford-upon-Avon. The music will be performed live each night by members of the acting company during the show's run from 5th December 2024 to 18th January 2025.

"Writing for theatre has always been a holy grail of mine, and for this to be my first experience of doing so I count myself incredibly lucky," he says. "I trust Prasanna and the RSC to put on an incredibly moving production, and I hope the music does it justice!"

Director Prasanna Puwanarajah adds: "Matt is one of the most exciting and skilful recording artists in the UK, and his songs are heavenly, gorgeous expressions of a mind exploring love, loss and forms of togetherness in a complex world. I can't describe how thrilling it's been to work with him on the songs and music for Twelfth Night, and to be able to work on this play with such an enquiring, instinctive and lovely artist. He's found such beauty and humanity in Shakespeare's words, and his music in the show is cut through with his trademark delicacy and unique sonic heartbeat. I can't wait to share his work with audiences as part of the fabric of Twelfth Night, and I feel so lucky that he's been able to fit us into his busy recording and international touring schedule. Thanks Matt."

The production features Samuel West as Malvolio, Gwyneth Keyworth as Viola, Bally Gill as Orsino and Freema Agyeman as Olivia. The music will only be available to hear live during performances at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, with no plans for streaming release.