Race: Eddie Izzard to play Jack Lawson

Two-time Emmy award-winning actor and stand-up comedian Eddie Izzard will assume the role of 'Jack Lawson' from 21 Jun 2010 in David Mamet's new play Race, taking over from original cast member James Spader who will play his final performance on 20 Jun 2010.

Izzard is no stranger to David Mamet, having originated the role of 'Del' in the 1994 world premiere of Mamet's 'The Cryptogram' at London's Ambassadors Theatre. Izzard made his Broadway debut as 'Bri' in 'A Day in the Death of Joe Egg' for which he was nominated for a Tony. London theatre credits also include '900 Oneonta,' 'Edward II,' and 'A Day in the Death of Joe Egg.' Film credits include: "Secret Agent," "The Avengers," "Velvet Goldmine," "Valkyrie," "Rage, " "Oceans Twelve," a"Oceans Thirteen" and "Rage."

He will join the recently announced Dennis Haysbert and Afton C. Williamson who also join the show in the summer - starring alongside original cast member Richard Thomas.

Race currently features James Spader (Jack Lawson), Richard Thomas (Charles Strickland), David Alan Grier (Henry Brown) and Kerry Washington (Susan).

Directed by David Mamet, Race made its world premiere at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, where it opened on 6 Dec 2009, following previews from 16 Nov 2009. The drama is scheduled to play its final performance on 21 Aug 2010.

The play opened to mixed reviews. Lacks real dramatic tension (NY Times); Slick but slight (NY Daily News); Briskly entertaining (USA TYoday); Grows increasingly wobbly. (Variety)

Race tells the story of three attorneys, two black and one white,who are offered a chance to defend a billionaire white man charged with a crime against a black woman.

Race features scenic design by Santo Loquasti and lighting design by BBrian MacDevitt, and is produced by Jeffrey Richards, Jerry Frankel & Steve Traxler, the award-winning producers of 'Speed-The-Plow,' 'Glengarry Glen Ross' as well as 'August: Osage County' and 'Blithe Spirit.'