© Angus McBean
© Angus McBean

1963: 'Hamlet'

Opening production, directed by Laurence Olivier
Peter O’Toole as Hamlet, Rosemary Harris as Ophelia

The NT's first production was a blockbuster success but not a happy experience: star Peter O'Toole and director Laurence Olivier didn't get on, the critics gave it a mauling, and O'Toole was reportedly sloshed much of the time. Nonetheless, it was a big hit.

The National Theatre's greatest hits: in pictures

A photographic tour of the National Theatre's star-studded half-century production list

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Our city's riverside theatre emporium has played host to plenty of historical stage moments over the course of its 50-year career. We take a look back through the programmes and cast lists of the National Theatre's history.

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