Will & Grace star Sean Hayes to make West End debut in transfer of Good Night, Oscar

Sean Hayes, star of US sitcom Will & Grace, is to reprise his Tony award-winning turn in Good Night, Oscar at London’s Barbican Theatre fresh from the production’s run on Broadway. 

The transfer of playwright Doug Wright’s latest work will mark Hayes’ West End debut, and will run from July 31 to September 21 as part of the Barbican’s summer season. 

Hayes’ portrayal of wisecracking Hollywood actor, pianist and composer Oscar Levant earned him a Tony award for the best lead actor in a play in 2023. 

Commenting on his upcoming West End debut, Hayes said: "I’m eager to introduce one of the all-time greats, Oscar Levant, to the UK. 

"The response we received on Broadway was incredible, and I’m hoping British audiences will appreciate the history of this fascinating man - a multi-faceted pioneer, from concern pianist to infamous raconteur. It’s an honour to bring this production to London."

Wright recalled Good Night, Oscar as "one of [his] very happiest Broadway experiences", continuing: "I can’t wait to introduce the irascible, indefatigable whirlwind that was Oscar Levant to London audiences. He’d be thrilled to play the Barbican, even posthumously."

Producer Howard Panter added: "Following the huge success of our previous summer productions, including Anything Goes, A Strange Loop and Kiss Me, Kate, the Barbican summer has become a highly anticipated fixture in London’s theatrical calendar. 

"With the addition of Good Night, Oscar alongside our recently announced Fiddler on the Roof, this season once again promises world-class storytelling and unforgettable performances." 

Good Night, Oscar will be directed by Lisa Paterson, who also helmed the Broadway production, and produced by Trafalgar Theatre Productions in association with the Barbican, with further casting still to be announced.