THE National Theatre’s breathtaking new version of Henrik Ibsen’s masterwork Hedda Gabler is set to arrive at Newcastle Theatre Royal next month.

Fresh from a sell-out run in London, it will thrill and unsettle Valentine’s week audiences from February 13 to 17.

Written by Olivier and Tony Award-winning playwright Patrick Marber (Closer), this vital new version of Ibsen’s 19th Century realism masterpiece is also directed by one of the world’s most exciting directors Ivo van Hove.

Hedda and Tesman have just returned from their honeymoon and the relationship is already in trouble. Trapped but determined, Hedda tries to control and manipulate those around her, only to see her own world unravel. Reimagined in a contemporary world for a modern audience, the play retains all its trademark power and vitality.

Lizzy Watts (The Durrells; Midsomer Murders and BBC Radio 4’s Home Front) plays the title role of free-spirited and unstable Hedda, one of the greatest dramatic parts in theatre and regarded as the female Hamlet.

The production follows an unprecedented run of critically acclaimed National Theatre visits to Newcastle Theatre Royal over the past five years including multi-award winning The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and Jane Eyre.

Set and lighting design for Hedda Gabler is by Jan Versweyveld, with costume design by An D’Huys and sound by Tom Gibbons.

Director Ivo van Hove's acclaimed production of A View from the Bridge recently played to sold out houses in London and on Broadway and Obsession starring Jude Law played last year at The Barbican.

Writer Patrick Marber said: "It has been a huge honour to work with the great Ivo van Hove on this version of Hedda Gabler at the National Theatre. I am thrilled that this tour will enable more people to see his incredible production."

Hedda Gabler plays Newcastle Theatre Royal Tues 13 to Saturday 17 February 2018. Evening shows are at 7.30pm, matinees on Thu 2pm and Sat 2.30pm. Tickets from £14.50. Tickets can be purchased from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 08448 11 21 21 (Calls cost 7ppm plus your phone company’s access charge) or book online at www.theatreroyal.co.uk