London’s Hampstead Theatre has announced its first three productions for 2019.

In January, artistic director Edward Hall directs the UK premiere of Martyna Majok’s Pulitzer Prize winning drama, COST OF LIVING. Playing on the Main Stage, the play follows John, a PhD student with cerebral palsy who hires Jess, a recent graduate, as his new carer. Meanwhile, truck driver Eddie attempts to support and re-engage with his estranged wife, Ani, following an accident that has left her quadriplegic. COST OF LIVING marks the 100th premiere at Hampstead since Edward Hall and Greg Ripley-Duggan took over the venue in 2010. The piece runs from 24th January to 2nd March.

From 7th February, the Hampstead hosts the world premiere of Hannah Patterson’s EDEN. Directed by Royal Exchange associate Matthew Xia in his Hampstead debut, EDEN tells the story of an idyllic town whose future becomes uncertain with the arrival of an American propery tycoon, intent on building a golf course. Based on true events, Hannah Patterson’s play runs at Hampstead Downstairs following her previous successes there, PLATINUM and GIVING. EDEN runs to 16th March.

Rounding out the Spring season, Hampstead Downstairs presents the premiere of Kellie Smith’s WILDERNESS. The play follows Joe and Anne, both scarred by their own parents seperations, who find themselves in the same position years later. Anna Ledwich returns to Hampstead to direct the play, following her Oliver award winning comedy DRY POWDER which ran at the venue earlier this year. WILDERNESS runs from 21st March to 27th April.

Hampstead Theatre has also announced its plans for a makeover to celebrate its 60th Birthday. The theatre plans to install 41 new seats into the theatre, increasing the annual capacity by 11,500 tickets, thus raising funding to sustain its financial sustainability. The project also includes an overall refurbishment of the foyer area. The theatre has launches a fundraising campaign to reach the £440,000 require to meet the cost, reaching out to patrons for donations and the option of naming a seat.

Public booking for the new season opens on 23rd November.