Ian McKellen will return to the stage in a new version of King Lear at London’s Yard Theatre, kicking off the venue’s inaugural season in its rebuilt Hackney Wick home. The production, reimagined by Simon Stephens and Jay Miller, promises to mark a fresh chapter for the theatre.

Ian McKellen is set to appear in Lear, a reimagined version of King Lear, at the Yard Theatre from 17 November 2026 to 2 January 2027. The press night is scheduled for 1 December. This production will launch the theatre’s first programme in its newly redeveloped venue following the demolition and reconstruction of the original building in Hackney Wick.

The reimagining is the work of playwright Simon Stephens and the Yard’s artistic director Jay Miller, who has led the theatre since its founding in 2011. McKellen last played King Lear in 2017 at the Chichester Festival Theatre in a production that later transferred to the West End and New York. He has previously collaborated with Stephens on the virtual theatre project An Ark.

The new Yard Theatre, designed by Takero Shimazaki Architects, more than doubles the size of its predecessor. It features a 220-seat auditorium, new artist development spaces, and expanded backstage facilities, representing a significant investment in the space and resources available to artists.

Lear’s creative team includes set and costume designer Stewart Laing, sound designer Josh Anio Grigg, lighting designer Zerlina Hughes, video designer Sarah Readman, choreographer Malik Nashad Sharpe, and assistant director Sophia Golan. The full cast and additional creative details will be announced in due course.

Booking will open for members at midday on 18 June, with tickets going on general sale from midday on 22 June. The production is part of the Yard Theatre’s wider effort to reestablish itself with a strong programme in its larger and more modern space.