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“The Hunger Games” will soon be adapted for the stage in London, marking an exciting new chapter for fans of the franchise.
Set to premiere in October at the Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre, renowned for its intimate theater-in-the-round design, this adaptation seeks to create an immersive experience based on Suzanne Collins’ influential 2008 novel.
Performance dates for this new version of the beloved tale will begin on October 20. The stage adaptation is crafted by Conor McPherson, who has been recognized by the New York Times as a leading playwright of his generation. Matthew Dunster, celebrated for his work on productions like “A Ghost Story” and “The Pillowman,” will direct.
Collins expressed her excitement about the project, praising McPherson’s unique adaptation that departs from the film’s screenplay, as well as Dunster’s innovative approach to staging. “I’m thrilled that ‘The Hunger Games’ is in the hands of gifted playwright Conor McPherson and accomplished director Matthew Dunster. Connor has done a fantastic adaptation, which is quite unique from the screenplay. And Matthew’s immersive, dynamic staging gives the audience a brand-new way to experience the story,” she stated.
McPherson noted his personal connection to the story and emphasized its relevance to contemporary audiences. “As a dad to a teenager myself, it’s especially gratifying working on a story whose values of resilience and moral courage speak to young people in these uncertain times,” he said.
Both McPherson and Dunster have promised that this staging will capture the same thrilling and passionate essence that has characterized both the book and movie adaptations, while also introducing original elements that enhance the live theater experience.
Jenefer Brown, Executive Vice President and head of global products and experiences at Lionsgate, commented on the adaptation’s significance, stating, “‘The Hunger Games’ is one of the best book to movie adaptations of all time, inspiring audiences to think deeply about the world around them and the strength of the human spirit. We are honored to bring its powerful story, characters and world to the stage in this latest exciting chapter.”
The “Hunger Games” franchise includes four critically acclaimed novels that have collectively sold over 100 million copies and have been translated into 52 languages. The film series began with its first installment in 2012, which contributed to a box office gross exceeding $3.4 billion. Collins is also set to release a new novel titled “Sunrise on the Reaping” on March 18, with Lionsgate already working on a film adaptation planned for release on November 20, 2026.
The creative team behind the production includes a varied group of talents: Miriam Buether, Moi Tran, Charlotte Broom, Lucy Carter, Ian Dickinson, Tal Rosner, Chris Fisher, Kev McCurdy, Suspended Illusions, James Maloney, Amy Ball CDG, James Robert Moore, Robyn Grant, Luke Smith, and Lloyd Thomas.
“The Hunger Games: On Stage” is being produced by Oliver Royds, Tristan Baker, and Charlie Parsons for Runaway Entertainment, with collaborations from Isobel David and Umeda Arts Theater, arranged through Lionsgate.
Tickets for “The Hunger Games: On Stage” will be available starting at 1 p.m. GMT on March 27. Interested viewers can sign up for priority access to tickets at www.thehungergamesonstage.com.
Source
www.thewrap.com