Radiohead’s Thom Yorke Delivers a Hypnotic Twist on Hamlet

Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’ gets a modern makeover in the enchanting adaptation titled ‘Hamlet Hail to the Thief’. With Thom Yorke leading the artistic direction, this production merges the dark themes of the play with the hauntingly beautiful soundscapes of Radiohead’s ‘Hail to the Thief’ album.

Premiere Date: April 27, 2025, at Factory International, Manchester

Transfer Date: June 4, 2025, to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon

The cast:

• Samuel Blenkin as Hamlet
• Ami Tredrea as Ophelia
• Paul Hilton as Claudius/Ghost
• Claudia Harrison as Gertrude

Alongside them, the talented ensemble features Alby Baldwin, Brandon Grace, James Cooney, Felipe Pacheco, Tom Peters, and Romaya Weaver.

This adaptation explores the journey of Hamlet and Ophelia as they unveil the corruption festering in the kingdom of Denmark. Radiohead’s music plays a pivotal role, setting the emotional tone of the story with hits like ‘There There’, ‘2+2=5’, and ‘Go to Sleep’.

Each performance promises an auditory and visual feast, immersing audiences in a blend of tragic drama and ethereal music. The synergy between Shakespeare’s profound narrative and Radiohead’s evocative compositions creates a new lens through which to experience these timeless themes.

Witnessing the rehearsal snapshots, such as directors Steven Hoggett and Christine Jones in action, gives us a glimpse of the creative energy fueling this innovative project. The stage is set for a theatrical journey that challenges perception and ignites the imagination.