James Norton, known for his roles in Happy Valley and King & Conqueror, is set to take on his first major Shakespearean stage role as Hamlet in London's West End in autumn 2027. The production will be directed by acclaimed German director Thomas Ostermeier, marking his first time directing Shakespeare in English.
Norton's Excitement and Fear
Norton described the opportunity as a 'privilege' and 'pretty terrifying.' He last appeared on stage in 2023 in the harrowing A Little Life, based on Hanya Yanagihara's novel, which he called the hardest thing he has ever done. 'It's a privilege for anyone to take on the role of Hamlet,' Norton said. 'It's also pretty terrifying! But with Thomas Ostermeier at the helm, I know I could not be in better hands.'
Ostermeier's Vision
Ostermeier first staged his acclaimed version of Hamlet in 2008, which visited London in 2011 with Lars Eidinger in the title role. That production was known for its radical approach, with Eidinger prowling among the audience and even snatching a critic's notepad. 'I am pleased to be revisiting Hamlet for the West End,' Ostermeier said. '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.'
Norton's Shakespearean Background
Norton has previous Shakespeare experience. As a student at Cambridge University in 2006, he played Don Pedro in Much Ado About Nothing, staged by Robert Icke. The following year, he played Posthumus in a production of Cymbeline at Cambridge Arts Theatre, directed by Trevor Nunn for the Marlowe Society. In 2016, he starred as Richard II in a short film for the Complete Walk series by Shakespeare's Globe, which played for free along the Thames to mark the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death.
Ostermeier's Recent Success in London
Ostermeier, known for his radical and bold approach to classics, recently had two star-powered hits in London: The Seagull with Cate Blanchett and An Enemy of the People with Matt Smith. Norton praised the intriguing and challenging nature of Ostermeier's work.
Production Details
Hamlet is produced by Wessex Grove and Gavin Kalin Productions. The venue, specific dates, and further casting details have yet to be announced.
