Hunger Games on Stage ‘Dazzles’ London — Critics Say It’s All Spectacle, No Soul

Hunger Games on Stage ‘Dazzles’ audiences in London but has drawn mixed critical responses after its high-profile debut at the £26 million Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre. Directed by Matthew Dunster and adapted from Suzanne Collins’ bestselling novels, the immersive production brings Panem to life through aerial stunts, projections, and combat choreography. While many reviewers praised the show’s technical brilliance and large-scale visuals, others said the performance lacked emotional depth.

Production and Performance Overview

The stage adaptation, officially titled The Hunger Games: On Stage, opened this week in London’s financial district with a 1,200-seat arena built specifically for the production.

Starring Mia Carragher as Katniss Everdeen and Euan Garrett as Peeta Mellark, the show uses cutting-edge visuals and audience “district” seating to recreate the dystopian world of Panem. One of the most talked-about moments features Katniss and Peeta soaring over the audience in a fiery chariot.

The £26 million venue was constructed to handle large-scale projections, lighting effects, and mechanical set movements. The creative team aimed to create a “360-degree” immersive experience that puts viewers directly in the action.

Critics and Industry Feedback

Critical response has been divided across major UK outlets.

The Stage praised the show as “ambitious and spectacular,” awarding it four stars for its use of space and energy. The Independent highlighted Carragher’s “athletic and impressive stage debut,” while The Guardian said the production offered “all spectacle above emotion.”

Conversely, The Financial Times rated it two stars, calling it “visually energetic but lacking a beating heart.” The Times also criticized its pacing, suggesting the vast stage “struggles to fill with enough spectacle to justify the steep prices.”

Producer Tristan Baker defended the faithful adaptation, noting, “We didn’t want to change the story, but fans will find Easter eggs and surprises.”

Cast members also shared their perspectives. Garrett said, “It’s a reimagining of its own entity. Suzanne Collins came to rehearsal and loved it, which gave us confidence.”

Industry Significance and Audience Response

The production’s arrival marks one of the most ambitious theatrical undertakings in the post-pandemic London stage scene. The purpose-built theatre required 42,000 pieces of steel and months of preparation, according to producer Oliver Royds.

While early previews faced logistical setbacks — including delays and unfinished sections — organizers report the issues have been resolved. Audiences have responded positively to the immersive staging and technical feats, though some critics argue the emotional storytelling lags behind the spectacle.

The show’s debut is being closely watched by producers and investors as a test case for large-scale film-to-stage adaptations, following the success of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

Future Performances and Global Plans

Performances of Hunger Games on Stage will continue through early 2026, with strong advance bookings and interest from international theater chains.

Talks are reportedly underway for potential tours in New York and Tokyo, depending on sustained audience demand. Cast members are scheduled for additional press appearances throughout the holiday season to promote the production.