The Hunger Games franchise is rocketing towards its cinematic conclusion with the first part of Mockingjay due in a couple of weeks and the second part hitting screens next year. So what will Lionsgate do without one of its mega-franchises? Why, keep the Katniss cash flow running, of course, by launching a Hunger Games theatrical experience.
Lionsgate has joined forces with Imagine Nation and Triangular Entertainment to bring The Hunger Games to the stage using what is described as “innovative and immersive” techniques. Broadway producer Robin de Levita, a man used to bringing famous stories to the stage after working on the first authorized play based on Anne Frank’s diaries, will be behind the stage adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ books.
The production is aiming to launch summer 2016 in a brand new purpose built theatre next to Wembley Stadium. So you can get your dose of players trying to mangle one another for rewards… and then go and see The Hunger Games. Here all week, try the ribs.
Though the cinematic cast won’t be involved – we doubt Jennifer Lawrence is looking to put her career on hold to play Katniss Everdeen on stage every night for months on end – it’ll be fascinating to see how the dystopian story is brought to life with a live audience watching. Will they be able to vote to change the storyline like a post-apocalyptic X-Factor? Only time will tell.
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 is out on November 20, with Part 2 due on the same date next year. There's more on the franchise in the current **Empire.