David Tennant to play Macbeth in new radio drama
He will be joined by Daniela Nardini as Lady Macbeth, Stuart McQuarrie as Banquo, and Alec Newman as Macduff.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.David Tennant will play the role of Macbeth in a new broadcast of the tragedy for BBC Radio 4.
Tennant, 50, joins a number of Scottish actors to portray William Shakespeare’s tyrannical king, following past performances from James McAvoy, Alan Cumming and Nicol Williamson.
The former Doctor Who star will play the titular role in a broadcast airing later this month.
Tennant is no stranger to Shakespeare’s work, having previously performed lead roles in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Hamlet, Richard II and Romeo And Juliet.
He also previously undertook the role of Malvolio in a three-part series of Twelfth Night on Radio 3 in 2013.
Bafta award winner Daniela Nardini will feature as Lady Macbeth in the new broadcast, with Stuart McQuarrie as Banquo, Alec Newman as Macduff and Naana Agyei-Ampadu as Lady Macduff.
Radio 4’s commissioning editor for drama and fiction Alison Hindell said: “Macbeth is a part of great significance for any actor, but particularly so for Scottish players.
“As David Tennant makes a welcome return to Radio 4 audio drama, we look forward to this performance with great anticipation.”
Part one of Radio 4’s Macbeth will air between 3pm and 4pm on April 23, coinciding with the date on which Shakespeare’s birthday is traditionally celebrated due to his precise birthdate being unknown.
The broadcast will also proceed the 400th anniversary of the publication of Shakespeare’s first folio, Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies, which will be celebrated in 2023.
The second hour-long instalment of the play will air at the same time the following day.