Ian McKellen to play Falstaff in 'Player Kings' in the West End in 2024
Robert Icke directs and adapts Player Kings from Shakespeare's Henry IV, and the show begins performances at the Noel Coward Theatre on 1 April 2024.
Ian McKellen is returning to Shakespeare with a new stage adaptation of Henry IV, Parts 1 and 2. Robert Icke will adapt and direct McKellen as John Falstaff in the production, Player Kings, which comes to the West End in spring 2024.
The show combines these two great Shakespeare history plays, which together depict a turbulent time in a divided England. Prince Hal must learn how to be king – but does that mean leaving his friends, like the hard-partying Falstaff, behind?
The production will have previews at the New Wimbledon Theatre on 1-9 March and Manchester Opera House on 14-23 March, before playing a 12-week run at the Noël Coward Theatre in the West End from 1 April-22 June 2024.
Ian McKellen commented: “I decided to become a professional actor at Cambridge in 1959, when I was in John Barton’s undergraduate production of Henry IV. Derek Jacobi played Prince Hal and I was the ancient Justice Shallow. Ever since, the plays have been among my favourite Shakespeares, although through the years I’ve resisted offers to play John Falstaff. Robert Icke’s ingenious adaptation was irresistible.”
Robert Icke said: “It’s a genuine honour to work with one of our greatest Shakespearean actors, Ian McKellen, especially as he tackles one of the most iconic Shakespearean roles – and one he's previously never turned his hand to. It’s an exciting challenge to bring together two of Shakespeare’s plays into one production, and I’m so excited to share Player Kings with audiences in the West End and across the country.”
The creative team for Player Kings features set design by Hildegard Bechtler, lighting design by Lee Curran, sound design by Gareth Fry, casting by Julia Horan, and fight direction by Kev McCurdy.
Check back for more information on tickets to Player Kings on London Theatre.
Frequently asked questions
What is Player Kings about?
Ian McKellen - 'one of the world's greatest actors' (Times) - plays Falstaff in a new version of Shakespeare’s Henry IV, adapted by the award-winning writer and director Robert Icke.
Where is Player Kings playing?
Player Kings is playing at Noël Coward Theatre. The theatre is located at 85-88 St Martin's Lane, London, WC2N 4AU.
How long is Player Kings?
The running time of Player Kings is 3hr 40min. Incl. 1 Interval.
How do you book tickets for Player Kings?
Book tickets for Player Kings on London Theatre.
What's the age requirement for Player Kings?
The recommended age for Player Kings is Ages 14+. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by and sat next to an adult ticketholder (18+). Children under the age of 3 will not be admitted..
Who wrote Player Kings?
Player Kings is by Robert Icke, who adapted the play from Henry IV: Parts 1 and 2 by William Shakespeare.
Who directed Player Kings?
Player Kings is directed by Robert Icke, who also adapted the script.
Is Player Kings appropriate for kids?
Player Kings is aimed at an older audience and is recommended for ages 10 and up.
Is Player Kings good?
Player Kings unites a legendary actor with an award-winning writer and director in one of the buzziest events of the spring 2024 theatre season.
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