Edmond Rostand’s legendary love story Cyrano de Bergerac transfers to London’s Noël Coward Theatre following an acclaimed run at the Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon. This much-loved classic combines sweeping romance, sharp humour and poetic brilliance in a story that has endured for over a century.
What Is Cyrano de Bergerac About?
At the heart of the play is Cyrano, a fearless swordsman and gifted poet whose battlefield confidence contrasts with his self-doubt. Though hopelessly in love with his distant cousin Roxane, Cyrano believes his appearance - namely, his big nose - makes him unworthy of her affections.
When Roxane becomes enamoured with the handsome but tongue-tied Christian, Cyrano agrees to help him win her heart, secretly supplying the words, causing Roxane to fall deeper in love with him. As love letters are exchanged and loyalties tested, the truth becomes harder to hide.
The History Of Cyrano de Bergerac
Since its premiere at the Théâtre de la Porte Saint-Martin in 1897, Cyrano de Bergerac has remained one of the most celebrated works in world theatre. The longest-running Broadway production ran for over 200 performances in 1923 and starred Walter Hampden, who returned to play Cyrano multiple times in 1926, 1928, 1932 and 1936.
Cyrano de Bergerac has also been adapted frequently for film and television. Famous screen versions include the 1950 film starring José Ferrer, who won an Academy Award for his performance, and the acclaimed 1990 French adaptation, which introduced the story to an international audience. The story has also inspired musical theatre adaptations. Most notably, Cyrano — with book and lyrics by Anthony Burgess and music by Michael J. Lewis — premiered on Broadway in 1973, with Christopher Plummer winning the Tony Award for ‘Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical’ for his portrayal of Cyrano.
More than a century after its debut, Cyrano de Bergerac continues to evolve, proving that its story and its hero remain as compelling today as they were at the end of the 19th century.
Cyrano de Bergerac Cast And Creatives
The iconic role of Cyrano is reprised by Olivier Award-winner Adrian Lester (Othello, Guys and Dolls, Riviera, Hustle). He is joined by Susannah Fielding (A Midsummer Night’s Dream, American Psycho the Musical, Black Mirror), returning as Roxane. Full casting details will be announced soon.
The creative team is comprised of direction by Simon Evans, set and costume design by Grace Smart, and lighting design by Joshie Harriette.
Book Tickets For Cyrano de Bergerac In 2026
Funny, moving and deeply romantic, Cyrano de Bergerac explores love in all its complexity, and asks powerful questions about identity, self-worth, the nature of true love, and whether honesty can ever come without cost. Book your Cyrano de Bergerac tickets now!