Olivier Award-Winning “Giant” Starring John Lithgow Opens in London’s West End

London, UK – April 26, 2025 – The highly anticipated drama “Giant,” an acclaimed theatrical exploration of the life and character of celebrated author Roald Dahl, commences its West End run tonight at the historic Harold Pinter Theatre. Following a sold-out and critically lauded engagement at the Royal Court theatre, the production transfers to the heart of London’s theatre district carrying the significant distinction of having won three major honours at the 2025 Olivier Awards, including the prestigious award for Best New Play.

Penned by playwright Mark Rosenblatt and helmed by director Nicholas Hytner, “Giant” offers audiences a profound and multi-layered portrait of Roald Dahl, the prolific writer known for captivating generations with works ranging from “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” to “Matilda,” while also navigating aspects of his public and private life. The play’s narrative delves into the complexities of Dahl’s personality and experiences, providing a nuanced perspective on the figure behind the beloved stories. The play’s transfer to the Harold Pinter Theatre, a renowned venue steeped in West End history and a key destination within London’s vibrant theatre landscape, underscores its impact and significance within the contemporary theatrical scene.

Olivier Award Triumph

The production’s journey to the West End has been marked by considerable critical success, culminating in its triumph at the recent 2025 Olivier Awards. The recognition as Best New Play is a testament to Rosenblatt’s compelling writing and the production’s overall artistic merit, signaling its status as a significant new work on the British stage. Beyond this top honour, “Giant” also received accolades for its compelling performances, a reflection of the exceptional talent assembled for the production.

Acclaimed Performances

Central to the play’s success is the performance of veteran actor John Lithgow, who embodies the complex figure of Roald Dahl. Lithgow’s deeply layered, nuanced, and powerful portrayal earned him the 2025 Olivier Award for Best Actor, a highly significant recognition in his distinguished international career spanning film, television, and theatre. His ability to capture the challenging and multifaceted essence of the literary icon has been widely praised by critics and audiences alike.

The exceptional cast further features Elliot Levey, who delivers a standout performance as Tom Maschler. Levey’s insightful portrayal has also been singled out for significant acclaim, resulting in his win for the Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. The dynamic and compelling interplay between Lithgow’s Dahl and Levey’s Maschler is a key element of the production’s dramatic strength, contributing significantly to its Olivier recognition for performance excellence.

Supporting Cast and West End Debut

The ensemble cast is rounded out by talented performers in crucial roles that flesh out the world of the play. Rachael Stirling appears as Felicity Crosland, and Richard Hope portrays Wally Saunders, both contributing depth and gravitas to the narrative tapestry surrounding Dahl’s life.

The production also marks a notable moment for American actress Aya Cash, known for her work in film and television. Cash makes her highly anticipated West End debut in “Giant,” taking on the role of Jessie Stone. Her arrival on the esteemed London stage adds another layer of international talent to the production. Returning to the cast, reprising her role from the earlier Royal Court run, is Tessa Bonham Jones, appearing as Hallie, indicating continuity and strength within the company as it transitions to the West End.

Creative Team

Behind the scenes, a distinguished creative team has meticulously shaped the visual and auditory world of “Giant.” The production features design by Bob Crowley, known for his evocative and impactful stage environments that powerfully support narrative. Anna Watson is responsible for the lighting design, expertly contributing to the play’s atmosphere and mood, while Alexandra Faye Braithwaite has created the sound design, enhancing the auditory experience and contributing to the production’s immersive quality. The crucial process of assembling the talented company that brings the story to life was overseen by casting director Arthur Carrington.

Limited West End Run

The limited West End engagement at the Harold Pinter Theatre is scheduled to run from its opening night tonight, April 26, 2025, until August 2, 2025. This relatively short run, just over three months in duration, means audiences wishing to experience the Olivier-winning play and its acclaimed cast must secure tickets within this specific timeframe. The successful transfer from the Royal Court, a theatre celebrated for fostering new and innovative writing and championing bold theatrical work, to a prominent West End house signifies “Giant”‘s successful artistic transition and broader commercial appeal.

Anticipation High

The combination of a fascinating biographical subject, award-winning writing and direction, stellar performances recognized by multiple Olivier Awards, and a top-tier creative team positions “Giant” as a must-see theatrical event of the current London theatre season. As the curtains rise this evening at the Harold Pinter Theatre, anticipation is high for the production that has already left a significant mark on the theatrical landscape and promises to offer West End audiences a powerful, thought-provoking, and memorable experience.