Hamlet - Grandage replaces Branagh as director
Story by Lizzie Guilfoyle
MICHAEL Grandage, Artistic Director of the Donmar Warehouse, will replace Kenneth Branagh as the director of Hamlet, the final production in the Donmar’s year-long residency at the West End’s Wyndham’s Theatre.
The Shakespeare tragedy which stars Jude Law, runs from June 3 (previews from May 29) to August 22, 2009.
Branagh, who is currently starring in Ivanov, the first production in the Donmar Season at the Wyndham’s, has withdrawn because of his commitment to a forthcoming feature film based on the Marvel comic book character Thor. In the meantime, he will continue in his role as the season’s artistic associate.
Theatregoers who have already booked to see Hamlet but no longer wish to see the production because of the change of director, can apply for a full refund from their point of sale.
Commenting on taking over from Branagh, Michael Grandage said: “I am thrilled and flattered to have the opportunity to direct Jude Law – one of the leading actors of his generation as he takes on one of the most important roles of his career. Kenneth Branagh will continue as artistic associate of the season and we have arrived at this arrangement very amicably whilst I still have time to proceed with a brand new production of this great play next year. From the outset, Ken has been a huge support and inspiration for the Donmar West End season – a project that we could not have realised without his input.”
Jude Law also spoke about the new development: “I feel privileged to be part of the Donmar West End season and to be directed by the company’s artistic director Michael Grandage on Hamlet. It was Ken who brought me to this project, and with his support and guidance, as one of the greatest Hamlets of all time, and with Michael directing, I can’t imagine a better scenario for me, as an actor, to undertake the role.”
Branagh’s withdrawal means that Grandage will now be directing all four productions in the season. As well Hamlet, it includes Ivanov (until November 29, 2008); Twelfth Night (December 5, 2008 to March 7, 2009); and Madame de Sade (March 13 to May 23, 2009).
It also means that his National Theatre debut has been postponed. He was to have directed Georg Buchner’s Danton’s Death next year.