The Book Thief musical to premiere in London at Lyric Hammersmith in 2027
The musical adaptation of Markus Zusak’s bestselling novel The Book Thief is set for its London premiere next summer at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre. The production brings a new theatrical interpretation of the World War II story, directed by Tom Jackson Greaves.
The Book Thief musical will run at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre from 24 July to 28 August 2027, with a press night scheduled for 30 July. This London staging follows the original Bolton Octagon production and is a co-production between the Lyric, DEM Productions, and Writers’ Cage, with Andrew Paradis, in association with Bethany Cooper Productions.
The show’s creative team includes director Tom Jackson Greaves, with music and lyrics by Elyssa Samsel and Kate Anderson. The libretto has been adapted by bestselling author Jodi Picoult, known for My Sister’s Keeper, alongside playwright Timothy Allen McDonald, who previously worked on Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach.
Set in Germany during 1940, The Book Thief follows 12-year-old Liesel Meminger as she steals books amid the turmoil of the Second World War. The narrative is uniquely framed through the voice of Death, who is searching for a story that might restore their faith in humanity.
Jackson Greaves said he was “thrilled to be leading this incredible musical into its next chapter,” emphasising the story’s contemporary relevance. Picoult and McDonald reflected on the timing of the show, noting the disturbing speed at which fascism can rise, and calling the production “the right story, at exactly the right time.”
The music duo Samsel and Anderson expressed excitement about revisiting the score, which now includes new songs that have evolved alongside the show. The London premiere confirms The Book Thief’s transition from regional theatre towards the capital, offering audiences a chance to engage with its poignant wartime narrative on a prominent stage.
The announcement forms part of the Lyric Hammersmith’s broader season, details of which were released alongside the musical’s schedule. The Book Thief musical adds to the growing trend of literary adaptations exploring historical themes through innovative theatrical forms.
