The Madness of George III

A major stage revival of Alan Bennett's comedy The Madness of George III in London starring David Haig in the title role of 'King George III'.

In spite of a catalogue of accomplishments - he founded the Royal Academy of Arts, was a passionate advocate of science, literature and music and fathered fifteen children - King George III is today best remembered for his bouts of unbridled lunacy. Subjected to the appallingly cruel medical treatment of the day and assailed by power struggles between politicians and his scheming son, George III remains throughout an intensely sympathetic character - melancholy, moving, witty... and finally triumphant.

The cast for this production of The Madness of George III in London features David Haig as 'King George III' along with Clive Francis, Beatie Edney and Madhav Sharma. The production is directed by Christopher Luscombe and comes to London following a hugely successful season in Bath, at the Theatre Royal.

The original production of Alan Bennett's The Madness of George III was staged at the National Theatre's Lyttelton Theatre in November 1991, winning Nigel Hawthorne - who played the title role - the Olivier, Evening Standard and Critics' Circle Awards for 'Best Actor in a Play'. He reprised the role for the 1994 film version (re-titled The Madness of King George) which also starred Helen Mirren and Ian Holm.

The Madness of George III in London at the Apollo Theatre previews from 18 January 2012, opens on 23 January 2012 and closes on 31 March 2012.