Michael Gambon pulls out of National Theatre production

Michael Gambon pulls out of National Theatre production

05 October, 2009
by: Spoonfed Team

Theatre doyen Michael Gambon has withdrawn from Alan Bennett’s new play The Habit of Art at the National Theatre, citing 'minor' health issues.  The production, about the friendship between  celebrated poet WH Auden and composer Benjamin Britten, will now debut on November 17 starring fellow stage veteran Richard Griffiths in Gambon's place.

In a statement, Gambon did not reveal details of his ailment but said: 'I’m really disappointed to be pulling out of this play, as I’m temporarily not firing on all cylinders. The timing is very unfortunate, but I have been told to rest for a couple of weeks. This means I must let the show go on without me'.

The Habit of Art is Bennett's follow up to the hugely successful The History Boys.  A play within a play, it sets up an imagined meeting Auden and Britten but within a group of actors in a rehearsal room. Sounds like a sure-fire West End blockbuster already, even without Dumbledore's magic touch. For information on its run, click here.

Check out more Theatre in London
Check out more Things to Do in London

Spoonfed Team