David Mitchell to play William Shakespeare in stage adaptation of Upstart Crow

It has been announced that David Mitchell will star in a stage adaptation of BBC sitcom Upstart Crow at the Gielgud Theatre, opening next year.

Set in Shakespearean England, audiences join William Shakespeare as he struggles to find inspiration for a new story. Surrounded by squabbling family members and friends, Shakespeare must produce an outstanding piece of work to please the masses.  

David Mitchell will reprise his television performance as William Shakespeare, making his West End debut in the production. Best known as one half of comedy duo Mitchell and Webb, his television credits include Peep Show and Would I Lie to You?

Speaking about his professional theatre debut, Mitchell said: "I'm delighted to have the opportunity to bring history's most famous balding dramatist to the West End via the amazing comic imagination of Ben Elton. Theatre goers can look forward to a comedy steeped in authentic Shakespearean ambience in every way apart from the smell."

Gemma Whelan will play Kate in Upstart Crow, previously starring in One Man, Two Guvnors at the National Theatre and Stephen & The Sexy Partridge at Trafalgar Studios.

Further casting is to be announced.

Upstart Crow will feature an original script by Ben Elton and is directed by Sean Foley, whose previous directorial credits include The Man in the White Suit at the Wyndham's Theatre.

First broadcast in 2016, Upstart Crow was commissioned to celebrate the 400^th anniversary of William Shakespeare's death. The television series starred Mitchell as the Bard, Liza Tarbuck as Anne Hathaway and Mark Heap as Shakespeare's rival, Robert Greene.

Upstart Crow is at the Gielgud Theatre from 7^th February to 25^th April 2020.

Upstart Crow tickets will go on sale on 27^th September.