Ewan McGregor is set to return to the London stage after a 17-year hiatus with a new adaptation of 'The Master Builder.' Directed by Michael Grandage, the play will run in the West End from April to July 2025. McGregor shares his excitement about the project and his love for the theatre.
- Ewan McGregor is making a stage comeback
- He'll star in the new adaptation of Ibsen's classic
- It will be on in the West End until 2025
The stage missed him
Ewan McGregor is making a highly anticipated return to the stage after 17 years, taking on a role in a new adaptation of Henrik Ibsen's 1892 play, 'The Master Builder.'
The Scottish actor, known for his versatile roles in film, will grace London's West End from April to July 2025. This new version of the play has been penned by American playwright Lila Raicek and will be directed by the acclaimed Michael Grandage. McGregor expressed his enthusiasm for returning to the theatre, noting, "the longest I haven’t been on stage, and in honesty, I’ve missed it."
McGregor's decision to return to the stage was sparked by an unexpected coincidence. "The funny story is, I had literally just finished reading Ibsen’s 'The Master Builder' for pleasure – an extraordinary read," he shared.
Shortly after, he received a call from Grandage, reigniting his passion for live performance. The two have previously collaborated on productions such as 'Othello' and 'Guys and Dolls' at the Donmar Theatre, where Grandage served as artistic director.
'The Master Builder' centers around Halvard Solness, a renowned architect in a small Norwegian town who becomes increasingly paranoid about being surpassed by a younger rival. The play explores themes of ambition, insecurity, and the complexities of human relationships.
This new adaptation aims to bring fresh perspectives to Ibsen's timeless narrative. The play was last adapted for film by Jonathan Demme in 2013, showcasing its enduring appeal.
The production will begin previews at Wyndham’s Theatre in London on 17 April and continue until 12 July 2025. McGregor is eager to return to the routine and the unique energy of live theatre.
He stated, "Theatre teaches you so much about acting, the audience teaches you. What works, and what doesn’t. It’s very good for the soul." The collaboration between McGregor and Grandage promises to deliver a compelling and dynamic theatrical experience.
A long career
On the big screen, McGregor is perhaps best known for his role as "Mark Renton" in the groundbreaking film 'Trainspotting' (1996), directed by Danny Boyle. The film, about a group of heroin addicts in Edinburgh, became a cult classic, and McGregor's performance helped cement his status as one of the most talented young actors of his generation.
McGregor's career also includes major roles in the 'Star Wars' prequel trilogy, where he played "Obi-Wan Kenobi" in 'The Phantom Menace' (1999), 'Attack of the Clones' (2002), and 'Revenge of the Sith' (2005). His portrayal of the iconic "Jedi Knight" won him a dedicated fanbase and solidified his place in blockbuster cinema.
Beyond these roles, McGregor has starred in a variety of films that display his range. He played "Christian" in 'Moulin Rouge!', a musical romance directed by Baz Luhrmann, where his vocal talents were showcased alongside his dramatic acting.
In 'Big Fish', directed by Tim Burton, McGregor played a younger version of "Edward Bloom," a charming storyteller, in a film that blends fantasy with poignant family drama. His work in 'The Impossible', where he portrayed a father caught in the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, earned him widespread acclaim for his emotional depth.
On stage, McGregor has also made a significant mark. He performed in the acclaimed London production of 'Guys and Dolls' in 2005, playing the role of "Sky Masterson," a charming gambler. His work on the West End was praised for its energy and charisma, demonstrating that he could transition seamlessly from screen to stage.
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McGregor's career has evolved over time, with a keen interest in both independent films and larger, more commercial projects. He's also ventured into directing, most notably with the film 'American Pastoral', in which he also starred as "Seymour 'Swede' Levov."
His ability to tackle such a wide array of roles and genres, from the grittiness of 'Trainspotting' to the whimsical world of 'Moulin Rouge!' and the heroic "Obi-Wan Kenobi" in 'Star Wars,' speaks to McGregor's immense talent and versatility. Whether on screen or on stage, he has solidified his reputation as one of the most respected and accomplished actors of his generation.
