Shakespeare is making a grand, vibrant return to Broadway this fall with an electrifying new production of “Much Ado About Nothing.” This boisterous reimagining, starring two beloved alumni from the “Avengers” films, promises a celebration centered on pure theatrical revelry.
The highly anticipated show will feature acclaimed stage actors Tom Hiddleston and Hayley Atwell, both known for their impressive work in action-adventure blockbusters. Guiding this exciting endeavor is director Jamie Lloyd, who has previously brought five successful productions to Broadway, including “Waiting for Godot” this season and “Sunset Boulevard” last season.
Theatergoers should note that this fresh take on “Much Ado” is scheduled for a limited run of just ten weeks. Producer Jamie Lloyd announced the upcoming run, confirming it will take place this fall at a venue operated by the esteemed Shubert Organization, though specific dates and the exact theater location are yet to be revealed.
Tom Hiddleston, globally recognized for his portrayal of Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, previously earned a Tony Award nomination for his sole Broadway appearance in Lloyd’s 2019 revival of Pinter’s “Betrayal.” Hayley Atwell, known to Marvel fans as Agent Peggy Carter (and who shared screen time with Hiddleston in “Avengers: Endgame,” though not directly together), has also gained fame as Grace in the “Mission: Impossible” film series. While she boasts extensive London stage experience, “Much Ado About Nothing” will mark her exciting Broadway debut.
Originally penned in the 1590s, “Much Ado About Nothing” is a classic romantic comedy brimming with clever deceptions and delightful chaos. Its last appearance on Broadway was back in 1984. In this new adaptation, Hiddleston and Atwell will portray the famously reluctant lovers, Benedick and Beatrice. Notably, this version casts slightly more mature romantic leads, with Hiddleston at 45 and Atwell at 43.
Audiences can expect a lively “’90s party” atmosphere, complete with pulsating house music, eye-catching headdresses, an air of hedonism, and plenty of festive pink confetti. Despite the unconventional concept, British critics were largely enchanted by its London run. The Guardian hailed it as “Thoroughly weird and absolutely wonderful,” granting it a five-star review. Time Out London, also giving it five stars, proclaimed it “a ridiculous, ecstatic, hilarious masterpiece,” while The Telegraph, equally impressed with five stars, described it as “bonkers but brilliantly inventive.”