Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Union)_ In a historic milestone for both Sri Lankan and global theatre, Sri Lankan-origin actor Hiran Abeysekera has been cast as the first non-white actor to portray Hamlet at the National Theatre in London. The acclaimed Sri Lankan-origin actor will step into the legendary role in a new production directed by Robert Hastie, scheduled to run from 25 September to 22 November 2025 at the Lyttelton Theatre. This casting marks a significant milestone not only in Abeysekera’s career but also in the history of the National Theatre, as it takes a bold step toward increasing diversity in classical theatre. Renowned for his emotional depth and commanding stage presence, Abeysekera is well-versed in Shakespearean theatre, having previously portrayed Horatio in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Hamlet.
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Abeysekera’s selection to play the troubled Danish prince is being hailed as a transformative moment for representation in the performing arts. Born and raised in Sri Lanka, Abeysekera initially pursued a career in medicine. However, after the tragic loss of a close friend during the 2004 tsunami, he redirected his path toward the arts. “If life can end so quickly, I want to do something I truly love,” he has said of the pivotal moment that led him to train at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. International acclaim followed, most notably with his Olivier Award-winning performance in Life of Pi, a production that further solidified his reputation as a powerful and versatile actor. His extensive theatre credits include The Father and the Assassin at the National Theatre, Botticelli in the Fire, The Prisoner, and several productions with the Royal Shakespeare Company.
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Abeysekera’s casting as Hamlet aligns with the vision of Indhu Rubasingham, the National Theatre’s new artistic director, whose inaugural season emphasizes inclusivity and innovation. As a Sri Lankan-origin actor leading one of Shakespeare’s most demanding roles on one of the UK’s most prestigious stages, Abeysekera’s achievement represents a cultural shift and a beacon of inspiration for emerging artists from underrepresented backgrounds. The upcoming production of Hamlet not only adds to Abeysekera’s impressive body of work but also stands as a symbol of evolving narratives in British theatre, ones that embrace diversity, broaden perspectives, and celebrate global talent.
