Andrew Lincoln, known for his work in "The Walking Dead," will join Alicia Vikander in a new London stage production of Henrik Ibsen's "The Lady from the Sea." The play will run at the Bridge Theatre.
The production is set to begin previews on September 10, with an official opening scheduled for September 18. The limited run will continue for nine weeks, concluding on November 8, 2025.
This engagement marks a return to the stage for Vikander after a 17-year absence. She will play the lead role of Ellida. Vikander has spent recent years focusing on film roles, including "Tomb Raider," "Ex Machina," and an Oscar-winning performance in "The Danish Girl."
"The Lady from the Sea" centers on Ellida, married to a doctor named Edward. Her life changes when a former lover reappears, forcing her to choose between her current life and the past.
Simon Stone adapted and directs the play. Stone is recognized for reinventions of classic works and has extensive theatre credits, including productions like "Yerma" and "Medea." Vikander described Stone as someone who makes classic stories relevant for today's audiences.
The actress noted her background in theatre, stemming from her mother being a stage actress in Sweden. She spoke of visualizing a stage career before focusing on film.
Other Ibsen adaptations have recently played in London. This production follows a trend of staging his works for modern audiences. A previous adaptation of "The Lady from the Sea" moved the story to the Caribbean in 2017.
Vikander stated she feels classics endure because they address human experiences that remain constant return to stage. She said themes in "The Lady from the Sea" about choices and unfulfilled aspirations resonate with her and seem universally human.
Vikander expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming workshopping process with Stone, which will shape the final script. While the setting for this new production is not yet confirmed, past adaptations have explored different time periods and locations.
Regarding her return to live performance after years away, Vikander shared her anticipation for the process. "I can't wait to try and do it myself," she said.
