Adrian Lester has teased involvement in an upcoming musical revival likely linked to Stephen Sondheim’s work. Speaking during the new revival of Into the Woods, Lester reflected on Sondheim’s legacy and hinted at a future project, sparking speculation among theatre fans.

Adrian Lester, appearing on the red carpet at the recent revival of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s Into the Woods, praised Sondheim’s lasting impact on musical theatre. He highlighted the complexity beneath Sondheim’s seemingly simple compositions, saying, “Sondheim will make you think that he’s writing something simple while doing something very, very, very complex – musically, lyrically, and with the characters.”

Lester emphasised the importance of revisiting Sondheim’s works, stating they “should be revived constantly, again and again.” During the event, he hinted at a forthcoming project connected to the composer’s catalogue, stating: “I’m thinking of something that’s going to happen in my future that I will speak on later on.”

When pressed about the nature of this project, Lester playfully denied confirming a specific title, adding, “I’m not saying anything right now! I don’t know what’s going on, I don’t know what you mean.” Despite the suggestion of a possible Sweeney Todd revival—hinted at through a rocking chair prop—Lester dismissed the idea, asserting there were “no chairs, no chairs, no chairs, but… definitely lots of… colour.”

The mention of “colour” has prompted speculation that the project could involve Sunday in the Park with George, known for its notable song “Color and Light.” Lester sidestepped this connection, saying, “I don’t know what you’re talking about! I’m going to go talk to a friend and then maybe get back to you.”

He concluded on a teasing note with, “We’ll see. We’ll see,” leaving the theatre community intrigued about what form this next collaboration with Sondheim’s work might take.

This development comes alongside the renewed interest in Sondheim’s oeuvre sparked by the revival of Into the Woods, a demonstration of the enduring appeal and complexity of his musicals. Adrian Lester’s engagement with Sondheim’s legacy signals a continued dialogue between contemporary performers and the composer’s challenging and influential body of work.