Lily James, Kristin Scott Thomas to star in 'Lyonesse' in the West End

This brand new play about an actress who hires a film executive after being missing for 30 years, will run for a limited season at Harold Pinter Theatre.

Bea Maynard
Bea Maynard

Kristin Scott Thomas and Lily James will return to the West End stage this autumn in the world premiere of Penelope Skinner's Lyonesse.

Directed by Ian Rickson, the new play will run at the Harold Pinter Theatre from 17 October to 23 December 2023.

Lyonesse tells of a reclusive actress who, after vanishing for three decades, is finally prepared to unveil her remarkable story. She calls upon Kate, a young film executive, to aid her in making a comeback.

This Sonia Friedman Productions play reunites Scott Thomas and James in their first stage collaboration, following their work together on BAFTA-winning film Darkest Hour and Netflix's Rebecca.

"When I received Penelope Skinner’s brilliant play, I read it in one sitting and adored it – I was utterly gripped by these strong, original characters. To work with Sonia Friedman again is an absolute dream but most importantly, I am so happy to be reunited with my friend, Kristin Scott Thomas." Lily James said in a statement.

Scott Thomas will also be rejoining forces with director Ian Rickson. The pair have collaborated on West End and Broadway shows before, including The Seagull, Electra, Betrayal, and Old Times.

"Working with Ian is one of the great joys of my professional life. And a new play is such an adventure. Penelope Skinner’s writing had me gripped from the first page. I love the questions the story raises." Kristin Scott Thomas said in a statement.

The creative team, led by director Ian Rickson, includes designer Georgia Lowe, lighting designer Jessica Hung Han Yun, music director Stephen Warbeck and sound designer Tingying Dong.

Check back for information on Lyonesse tickets on London Theatre.

Photo credit: Kristin Scott Thomas and Lily James. (Photo courtesy of production)

Originally published on

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