Denis Lawson's production of Little Malcolm and his Struggle Against the Eunuchs , starring his nephew and "Trainspotting" film star Ewan McGregor, is confirmed for a West End transfer next month. The revival of David Halliwell's 1966 play -- which sold out its current seven-and-a half week run at the 174-seat Hampstead Theatre in north London before reviews (all positive) were even published -- will open at the Comedy Theatre for a limited eight-week season on Jan. 20, 1999. The Hampstead run ends Jan. 2.
McGregor has also said that he hopes to take the play to Broadway and also direct and star in a new screen adaptation, although nothing has yet been confirmed regarding those plans.
Set in winter 1965, the play tells the story of Malcolm Scrawdyke, a suspended art school student who is plotting his revenge on the world. With three loyal acolytes, he forms the Party of Dynamic Erection and his icy Huddersfield studio becomes their headquarters. Their collective aim is to overthrow authority and establish Scrawdyke as leader. But as the fantasies become more potent, Scrawdyke falls victim to his own scheming.
The original Hampstead cast will accompany McGregor to the West End, including Sean Gilder, Nicholas Tennant and Joe Duttine as Scrawdyke's followers and Lou Gish as his love interest.
Little Malcolm and His Struggle against the Eunuchs was David Halliwell's first stage play. When it was first produced, at the West End's Garrick Theatre in 1966, it became an instant classic; in 1973, it was made into a feature film. Ewan McGregor returned to the stage for the first time since 1993 to play Malcolm in the Hampstead production. The Scottish actor has become best known for his leading roles in films such as the BAFTA award-winning "Shallow Grave," "Trainspotting," "A Life Less Ordinary," "Brassed Off" and "Velvet Goldmine." He is soon to star in the "Star Wars" prequel. His stage credits include Lipstick on Your Collar (Guildhall) and What the Butler Saw (Salisbury Playhouse).
For further information, contact the Comedy Theatre box office on 011-44-171-369-1731.
-- By Terri Paddock
What's On Stage, London
