When does the "Hamnet" stage play premiere in the U.S.?

The "Hamnet" stage play premieres in the U.S. on February 10, 2026, at Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

Who is playing Agnes and William Shakespeare in the "Hamnet" play?

Kemi-Bo Jacobs is portraying Agnes, and Rory Alexander is playing William Shakespeare in the "Hamnet" stage play.

Where can I see the "Hamnet" play during its U.S. tour?

The "Hamnet" play will tour Chicago, Washington D.C., and San Francisco through May 2026.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Hamnet Play Debuts in U.S. with Stellar Cast

Hamnet Play Debuts in U.S. with Stellar Cast

13 Jan

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Summary

Hamnet play's American debut features Kemi-Bo Jacobs as Agnes and Rory Alexander as William.
The production tours Chicago, Washington D.C., and San Francisco through May 2026.
The play, based on Maggie O'Farrell's novel, explores loss and family in Shakespeare's life.

Hamnet Play Debuts in U.S. with Stellar Cast

The highly anticipated stage adaptation of Maggie O'Farrell's bestselling novel, "Hamnet," is set to captivate American audiences with its U.S. tour commencing February 10, 2026, at Chicago Shakespeare Theater. The production features Kemi-Bo Jacobs as Agnes and Rory Alexander as William Shakespeare, bringing to life a deeply personal narrative.

Directed by Erica Whyman, the play explores the profound impact of the plague on Shakespeare's family, focusing on his wife Agnes and their devastating loss of their son, Hamnet. The ensemble cast includes numerous talented performers bringing supporting characters to life on stage.

Following its Chicago run, the production will move to Washington D.C. and San Francisco, concluding its tour on May 24, 2026. The play's arrival in the U.S. follows the international success of its source novel and the recent buzz surrounding its film adaptation at the Golden Globes.