The Hunger Games Is Coming To The West End

It was only a matter of time before The Hunger Games made it to the stage. Since Suzanne Collins’ first novel in the trilogy was published back in 2008, the story has garnered worldwide critical acclaim, sparking an epic film series which went on to become one of the highest grossing movie franchises of all time. No doubt there will be similar hype surrounding the new theatre adaptation, The Hunger Games On Stage, set to debut in London next autumn.

The Hunger Games On Stage: What We Know So Far

The show was written by multi award-winning playwright Conor McPherson, with director Matthew Dunster (The Pillowman and 2:22 – A Ghost Story) at the helm. 

Set in a dystopian future, The Hunger Games tells the story of a nation (formerly North America) which is separated into 12 districts, and every year two tributes from each are pitted against one another in a televised deadly battle. At the centre of the story is heroine Katniss Everdeen, who becomes a symbol of rebellion as she defies the oppressive Capitol. 

Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson as Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark in The Hunger Games, Lionsgate

‘To receive Suzanne Collins’ blessing to adapt The Hunger Games for the stage is both humbling and inspiring,’ said McPherson. ‘She has created a classic story which continues to resonate now more than ever. In a world where the truth itself seems increasingly up for grabs, The Hunger Games beautifully expresses values of resilience, self-reliance and independent moral inquiry for younger people especially.’

Dunster was equally excited to be involved. ‘This might be the most exciting work call I’ve ever had,’ he said. ‘As soon as the producers said the title, I just said “Stop! I’m in”. I loved the Lionsgate film and the brutal and emotional power of this dystopian classic. My children had their heads in the books at the time (it’s definitely the only work call of mine they’ve been excited about) so I stole them and I came to appreciate the beauty of Suzanne Collins’ storytelling.’

Rachel Zegler as Lucy Gray Baird and Tom Blyth as Coriolanus Snow in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. (c) Murray Close

The original book, The Hunger Games, was published in 2008, with two sequels to follow: Catching Fire in 2009, and Mockingjay in 2010. A couple of years later, the first film adaptation came out, starring Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss alongside names like Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Stanley Tucci and Elizabeth Banks. Three more films followed, with a much-anticipated prequel set to arrive cinemas this November, featuring an equally star-studded cast which includes Rachel Zegler (Snow White), Hunter Schafer (Euphoria) and Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones).

The Hunger Games On Stage will debut in London in 2024, find out more at hungergamesonstage.com