Brokeback Mountain, the short story by Annie Proulx that was adapted into the 2005 film of the same name, is now getting a stage adaptation and will run from 10 May to 12 August at Soho Place in London’s West End.
The story of Jack and Ennis, who work on the remote Brokeback Mountain where they develop a relationship, is best known due to the 2005 film. Directed by Ang Lee and starring Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal, it won three Oscars – for direction, adapted screenplay and score.
Mike Faist and Lucas Hedges will play Jack and Ennis on stage. For both actors, it will mark their West End debut. Hedges was nominated for the Oscar for best supporting actor for his role in Manchester By The Sea.
Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger starred in the film adaptation of Proulx’s short story
The stage adaptation is written by Ashley Robinson, directed by Jonathan Butterell, and the songs are by Dan Gillespie Sells. Brokeback Mountain will play at Soho Place, a new venue that opened in October 2022.
Proulx said: “Brokeback Mountain has been recreated in several different forms, each with its own distinctive moods and impact. Ashley’s script is fresh and deeply moving, opening sight lines not visible in the original nor successive treatments.”
Just announced, Brokeback Mountain! This world premiere stage adaptation stars Mike Faist and Lucas Hedges in their West End debuts, script by Ashley Robinson, songs by @DanGSells
and directed by Jonathan Butterell. Playing from 10 May-12 August
Book now:https://t.co/UvfKXlGG2t pic.twitter.com/3YZS2vXIRS— @sohoplace (@sohoplacelondon) March 20, 2023
Robinson added: “I’m honoured to be entrusted by Annie Proulx to bring new life in new form to her timeless and universal story. A story that means so much to so many, and will surely mean as much to a whole new generation.”
Butterell said: “When Ashley approached us about collaborating on ‘Brokeback Mountain’ we were struck immediately by his deep connection to the world and community that Annie has so brilliantly written about over the years. He brought to the adaptation an authenticity and an understanding of these working class men, scraping to survive the harsh brutality of their environment and the insularity of thinking surrounding them, which ultimately leads to their tragedy.”
Sells said: “The material and this complex story is inspiring to compose for. I’ve really enjoyed reconnecting with a genre of music I grew up with and using it to serve the drama of each moment. Plus I get to work with some legendary artists which is such an honour and a joy.”
