The stage adaptation of The Hunger Games, based on the first book in Suzanne Collins's series and its 2012 film version, has set dates and a home for its upcoming world premiere in London, Playbill reported. The production was written by Olivier-winning playwright Conor McPherson, with Matthew Dunster directing.
The play will begin performances October 20 at Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre, a new venue built for The Hunger Games. "Planned to be in-the-round, the venue has been designed to make audiences feel like they're part of the action," Playbill noted.
"This specially designed theatre is the perfect home for Panem, allowing our world class team to create a transportive, electrifying experience that fully captures the scale, intensity, and spectacle of Suzanne Collins's world," said Tristan Baker and Oliver Royds, joint CEOs and founders of Troubadour Theatres. "Every element--from the staging to the technology--has been tailored to transport audiences right into the heart of the Games like never before."
McPherson said: "Our singular focus is to honor Suzanne Collins's achievement with a faithful adaptation that's as thrilling on stage as it is on the page. It's been a great pleasure to watch the theatrical language of this show evolving through explosive workshops under Matthew Dunster's inspired partnership with choreographer Charlotte Broom and their tireless team of young performers."
Collins added: "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."