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Hamlet returns to London starring James Norton
A new production of Shakespeare’s tragedy comes to the capital in autumn 2027 – here’s what we know so far
James Norton (A Little Life) is set to return to the stage next year, playing the titular role in a new production of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The revival will be conceived and directed by Thomas Ostermeier, who brings it to the West End in autumn 2027, with producers Wessex Grove and Gavin Kalin Productions. The venue and exact performance dates are yet to be announced.
Norton said: “It’s a privilege for anyone to take on the role of Hamlet. It’s also pretty terrifying! But with Thomas Ostermeier at the helm, I know I could not be in better hands. Both this role and this director have intrigued me and challenged me over the years, and so I cannot wait to start this journey with Thomas and see where it takes us.”
Ostermeier said: “I am pleased to be revisiting Hamlet for the West End with the great stage actor, James Norton. It will be my first time directing Shakespeare in English, and I am excited to explore the original text in order to bring this new production to life. My first Hamlet has been touring the world for 18 years so I am honoured to have the opportunity to bring it here to London with James, who in my mind is a perfect Prince of Denmark.”
Ostermeier has seen great success in London with productions like The Seagull starring Cate Blanchett and Tom Burke at the Barbican and An Enemy of the People starring Matt Smith in the West End. He’s directed Hamlet before, in German, with six performers take on around 20 roles between them. This version of the tragedy has toured extensively since 2008.
Hamlet was last revived in the West End in 2017 by Robert Icke, with Andrew Scott playing the titular role at the Harold Pinter Theatre.
