The doctor will see you now…
The first casting has been revealed for the premiere stage production of global cultural phenomenon The Silence of the Lambs.
It’s been announced today (Thursday) that British actor, singer, presenter, writer and director John Partridge will don the iconic mask as the refined and sadistic Dr Hannibal Lecter.
He is perhaps best known for his long-running role as Christian Clarke in BBC 1’s EastEnders, and an extensive range of West End credits from CATS to Everybody’s Talking About Jamie.
John Partridge said of his casting for the upcoming tour, “How often does an actor get to play a role that by simply saying the character’s name, it takes your breath away.
“It’s a huge honour, and I intend to savour every morsel of it!”
When FBI trainee Clarice Starling is sent to interview the psychiatrist and infamous murderer Hannibal Lecter, it’s hoped his brilliant mind will help catch sadistic new serial killer, Buffalo Bill. Another girl is missing, and time is running out. But Dr Lecter has questions of his own, and now Clarice must decide: keep a safe distance, or let Hannibal ‘The Cannibal’ into her head?
This new modern adaptation of Thomas Harris’ gripping literary masterpiece is brought to life by acclaimed television writer and playwright Gina Gionfriddo, and directed by Nikolai Foster.
Director Nikolai Foster added: “Taking on a role like Hannibal Lecter requires real guts, tenacity and an appetite to confront the darkest depths of the human condition.
“Working with John on the role has been incredibly inspiring – his instincts are razor sharp – and there is no finer actor to bring to life Thomas Harris’s most chilling creation in our world premiere stage adaptation.”
Full creative team and further casting to be announced.
The Silence of the Lambs will play at the Grand Opera House York from Monday 15 to Saturday 20 March 2027.
The show is produced by Indigo Productions and Crossroads Live, in association with Curve.
Tickets for The Silence of the Lambs are already on sale – starting from £20, they’re available via the Grand Opera House website.