Melanie La Barrie will star as Death in the special concert performance of The Book Thief at the Prince of Wales Theatre in London on Sunday, 19 October 2025. This musical adaptation is based on Markus Zusak’s bestselling novel, which has sold over 16 million copies worldwide.
La Barrie is best known for originating the role of Hermes in the West End premiere of Hadestown. This performance earned her the 2025 Whatsonstage Award for Best Supporting Performer in a Musical. Her impressive theatre credits also include performances in & Juliet, Wicked, Matilda the Musical, Mary Poppins, and Les Misérables. She is currently appearing as Nurse in Mary Page Marlowe at The Old Vic.
The concert features a book by best-selling authors Jodi Picoult and Timothy Allen McDonald, with music composed by Kate Anderson and Elyssa Samsel. Set in Nazi Germany, the story is narrated by Death, portrayed by La Barrie, and follows the young girl Liesel Meminger, who finds hope and courage through books amid the hardships of war. The production promises a rollercoaster of emotions and beautiful storytelling, brought to life by an outstanding cast and creative team.
Under the direction and choreography of Tom Jackson Greaves, the concert aims to captivate audiences with its touching narrative and memorable score. This one-night-only event offers a unique theatrical experience, highlighting Melanie La Barrie’s extraordinary talent in this deeply moving role.
