James McAvoy To Play Macbeth In New West End Show

Scottish star James McAvoy will play his nation's most famous royal when he takes to the stage to portray Macbeth next year in the latest adaption of Shakespeare's most famous play.

McAvoy will portray the tragic King on stage at Trafalgar Studios from February 9 to April 27, 2013 in the latest version of one The Bard's best known plays, which is being helmed by Jamie Lloyd. The new version will thrust the original forward a few hundred years, and is set in a dystopian future version of Scotland, where Macbeth takes on his power struggle with the help (or rather hindrance) of his maniac wife - with the actress portraying Lady Macbeth yet to be announced.

Speaking to reporters about the unveiling of his new star, Lloyd said: "I am thrilled to announce the first production for Trafalgar Transformed - a season of politically-charged power plays on the doorstep of Whitehall, accompanied by a festival of platform events, discussions and readings. We hope to welcome new and diverse audiences to the West End and I am very excited to engage with schools and other groups via a series of bespoke workshops and master classes."

Performances will run from Monday to Saturday at 7.30pm, and Thursday and Saturday at 2.30pm. Tickets are priced from £10 to £54.50 and are on sale now, just in time for Christmas.