Sheffield Theatres has announced the full company of actors for its ambitious Shakespeare season at the Crucible, featuring new productions of King Lear and Twelfth Night.
In a rare theatrical undertaking, the same ensemble will perform across both productions, taking on multiple roles throughout the season.
The company joins the previously announced Olivier and Tony Award winner Ian McDiarmid, who will play the title role in King Lear, directed by Donmar Warehouse Associate Artistic Director Titas Halder. The production runs from 29 August to 19 September 2026.
Mathew Horne will lead Twelfth Night as Malvolio in a production directed by Jamie Glover, which runs from 10 to 31 October 2026.
The ensemble includes David Birrell, James Chetwood, Mark Holgate, Christopher Jordan, Justina Kehinde, Hazel Monaghan, Harry Redding, Max Revell, Jay Saighal, Bebe Sanders, Sachin K Sharma, Fode Simbo, Milo Twomey and Katie Wimpenny, each appearing across both productions.
Titas Halder said: “What a fabulous company we have to make these two very special plays with. I’m delighted to be working with these wonderful actors. Matilda James has done the most exceptional job as casting director, and it has been a pleasure to work alongside her and Jamie to assemble this fantastic group.”
Jamie Glover added: “It has been a true joy working alongside Titas and the wonderful Matilda James to assemble this exceptional cast of actors. I cannot wait to get into the room with them and start work on Twelfth Night. But I’m equally excited to simply get to watch the magic they will bring to what I am certain will be a gripping, thrilling production of King Lear.”
Sheffield Theatres Artistic Director Elizabeth Newman described the season as “a landmark moment in the theatre’s history”, highlighting the opportunity to fill the Crucible with two of Shakespeare’s greatest plays brought to life by a world-class ensemble.
She added: “It is a privilege to welcome Ian McDiarmid back to the Crucible to take on the monumental role of Lear and to welcome the wonderful Mathew Horne to join our Shakespearean Company to play Malvolio.”
Michael Grandage, Artistic Director of MGC, said: “Elizabeth Newman continues to put Sheffield Theatres at the centre of the UK’s creative output and I am delighted MGC can join her for this hugely ambitious season. Apart from anything else, it’s a wonderful opportunity for me to return to the Crucible and engage with all the great work that is going on.”
King Lear is presented in association with MGC, marking a reunion between Sheffield Theatres and former Artistic Director Michael Grandage. The productions will feature creative teams led by Titas Halder and Jamie Glover respectively, with casting by Matilda James.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
