Simon McBurney
Latest News on Simon McBurney:
THE SOUND OF ABSENCE Comes to Omnibus in February (Nov 25, 2025)
LA Phil Appoints Esa-Pekka Salonen to New Position of Creative Director (Sep 2, 2025)
Nederlands Dans Theater & Complicité Bring FIGURES IN EXTINCTION to Sadler’s Wells Theatre (Aug 14, 2025)
THE SOUND OF ABSENCE Comes to Omnibus in February (Nov 25, 2025)
LA Phil Appoints Esa-Pekka Salonen to New Position of Creative Director (Sep 2, 2025)
Nederlands Dans Theater & Complicité Bring FIGURES IN EXTINCTION to Sadler’s Wells Theatre (Aug 14, 2025)
BIO
Simon McBurney is a British actor, writer, and director who has made a name for himself on both stage and screen. Born in Cambridge in 1957, McBurney attended the University of Cambridge before going on to study at the Jacques Lecoq School in Paris. He co-founded the theatre company Complicite in 1983, which has since become known for its innovative and visually stunning productions.
McBurney's stage work includes a number of notable productions, both with Complicite and as a solo performer. In 1997, he wrote and performed in "The Caucasian Chalk Circle" at the National Theatre, which won him an Olivier Award for Best Actor. He also wrote and directed "The Encounter," a one-man show about a National Geographic photographer lost in the Amazon rainforest, which premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2015 before transferring to the West End and Broadway.
In addition to his stage work, McBurney has also appeared in a number of films and television shows. He played the role of MI6 agent Nigel in "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy" (2011), and appeared in "The Theory of Everything" (2014) as astrophysicist Frank Hawking. He also played the role of Archdeacon Robert in the BBC series "Rev." (2010-2014).
One of McBurney's most notable stage performances was in the Broadway production of "The Elephant Man" in 2014. McBurney played the role of Frederick Treves, a doctor who takes in John Merrick, a severely deformed man who becomes a celebrity in Victorian London. McBurney received critical acclaim for his performance, with The New Yorker calling him "mesmerizing," and The New York Times praising his "compelling, understated performance."
More recently, McBurney directed the National Theatre's production of "The Master and Margarita" in 2018. Based on the novel by Mikhail Bulgakov, the play tells the story of the devil's visit to Moscow in the 1930s. McBurney's production was praised for its inventive staging and use of technology, with The Guardian calling it "a thrilling, disorientating ride."
Photos
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STAGE CREDITS
Productions
Writing
Playwright
Playwright
Writer
Creator
Awards and Nominations
Drama League Awards - 2017 - Distinguished Performance Award
Simon McBurney, The Encounter
winner
Outer Critics Circle Awards - 2017 - Outstanding Solo Performance
Simon McBurney, The Encounter
Olivier Awards - 2013 - Best Director
Simon McBurneyThe Master And Margarita
winner
Olivier Awards - 2008 - Best New Play
Simon McBurneyA Disappearing Number
The Lortels - 2001 - Outstanding Director
Simon McBurney, Mnemonic
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1998 - Outstanding Director - Play
Simon McBurney, The Chairs
Drama Desk Awards - 1998 - Outstanding Director - Play
Simon McBurney, The Chairs
winner
Olivier Awards - 1998 - Best Theatre Choreographer
Simon McBurneyThe Caucasian Chalk Circle
Tony Awards - 1998 - Best Direction of a Play
Simon McBurney, The Chairs
Olivier Awards - 1995 - Best Director of a Play
Simon McBurneyThe Three Lives Of Lucie Cabrol
Olivier Awards - 1995 - Best Director of a Play
Simon McBurneyThe Three Lives Of Lucie Cabrol
Olivier Awards - 1993 - Best Director of a Play
Simon McBurneyThe Street Of Crocodiles
Videos
VIDEO: Watch An All New Trailer For The Met: Live in HD's 2022/2023 Season
by Alan Henry - 2022-08-02 12:37:50
VIDEO: Russell Crowe is Roger Ailes in THE LOUDEST VOICE Trailer
by Kaitlin Milligan - 2019-05-09 14:10:06
VIDEO: Russell Crowe is Fox News Founder Roger Ailes in THE LOUDEST VOICE
by Kaitlin Milligan - 2019-04-16 11:13:17
VIDEO: Watch Filmed Performance of Simon McBurney's THE ENCOUNTER Now!
by Caryn Robbins - 2017-05-22 13:53:28
TV: Out of the Amazon- Simon McBurney Celebrates Opening Night of THE ENCOUNTER
by TV - Opening Night Special - 2016-10-02 15:00:45
TV Exclusive: Open Your Ears and Watch the First Trailer for THE ENCOUNTER on Broadway!
by Nicole Rosky - 2016-08-04 17:02:01
STAGE TUBE: Watch New Trailer for THE CONJURING 2, Hitting Theatres This June
by Louisa Brady - 2016-03-26 17:34:41
VIDEO: New Trailer for J.K. Rowling's THE CASUAL VACANCY on HBO
by TV News Desk - 2015-03-26 21:42:36
VIDEO: First Look at JK Rowling's THE CAUAL VACANCY Mini-Series
by Caryn Robbins - 2015-02-02 13:21:18
VIDEO: First Look - Emma Stone Stars in Woody Allen's MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT
by Caryn Robbins - 2014-07-24 14:43:04
STAGE TUBE: First Look - Trailer for TINKER, TAILOR, SOLDIER, SPY
by Caryn Robbins - 2011-11-29 12:38:16
News
THE SOUND OF ABSENCE Comes to Omnibus in February
by Stephi Wild - Nov 25, 2025
Inspired by writer and performer Yanina Hope’s relationship with her father, The Sound of Absence blends theatre and original live piano music to examine the complexities of father-daughter bonds and the ways parents’ decisions shape our lives.
by Stephi Wild - Nov 25, 2025
Inspired by writer and performer Yanina Hope’s relationship with her father, The Sound of Absence blends theatre and original live piano music to examine the complexities of father-daughter bonds and the ways parents’ decisions shape our lives.
LA Phil Appoints Esa-Pekka Salonen to New Position of Creative Director
by Stephi Wild - Sep 2, 2025
LA Phil has announced the expansion of its artistic leadership team with the appointment of Esa-Pekka Salonen to the newly established position of the Judith & Thomas L. Beckmen Creative Director.
by Stephi Wild - Sep 2, 2025
LA Phil has announced the expansion of its artistic leadership team with the appointment of Esa-Pekka Salonen to the newly established position of the Judith & Thomas L. Beckmen Creative Director.
Nederlands Dans Theater & Complicité Bring FIGURES IN EXTINCTION to Sadler’s Wells Theatre
by Stephi Wild - Aug 14, 2025
This autumn, world- renowned dance and theatre titans Crystal Pite and Simon McBurney join forces with the dancers of Nederlands Dans Theater (NDT) in a culmination of their years-long collaboration Figures in Extinction
by Stephi Wild - Aug 14, 2025
This autumn, world- renowned dance and theatre titans Crystal Pite and Simon McBurney join forces with the dancers of Nederlands Dans Theater (NDT) in a culmination of their years-long collaboration Figures in Extinction
Edinburgh International Festival Launches 2025 Edition With Global Artists
by A.A. Cristi - Aug 1, 2025
The 2025 Edinburgh International Festival will officially open tomorrow, launching a 24-day global celebration of music, opera, theatre, and dance. Now in its third year under Festival Director and acclaimed violinist Nicola Benedetti, this year’s Festival invites audiences to explore the theme The Truth We Seek—a journey into the elusive and multifaceted nature of truth in personal and public life.
by A.A. Cristi - Aug 1, 2025
The 2025 Edinburgh International Festival will officially open tomorrow, launching a 24-day global celebration of music, opera, theatre, and dance. Now in its third year under Festival Director and acclaimed violinist Nicola Benedetti, this year’s Festival invites audiences to explore the theme The Truth We Seek—a journey into the elusive and multifaceted nature of truth in personal and public life.
An Evening With Carlo Rovelli Comes to Edinburgh
by Stephi Wild - Jun 23, 2025
This September marks a decade since Carlo Rovelli's Seven Brief Lessons on Physics first presented to the world its poetic vision of science. To celebrate, Edinburgh Science and Penguin Random House will host evening of science, art and music.
by Stephi Wild - Jun 23, 2025
This September marks a decade since Carlo Rovelli's Seven Brief Lessons on Physics first presented to the world its poetic vision of science. To celebrate, Edinburgh Science and Penguin Random House will host evening of science, art and music.
Daniel Kaluuya, James Corden, Reece Shearsmith and More Join ECHO at the Royal Court
by Stephi Wild - May 29, 2025
The Royal Court Theatre has revealed ten new performers who will star in Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour’s critically acclaimed production ECHO at the Royal Court next month.
by Stephi Wild - May 29, 2025
The Royal Court Theatre has revealed ten new performers who will star in Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour’s critically acclaimed production ECHO at the Royal Court next month.
La Mama Umbria Will Host 26th Year Of International Symposium For Directors
by Stephi Wild - Mar 31, 2025
This Summer, as La MaMa Umbria celebrates the 26th year of its flagship program, directors and playwrights will have an opportunity to learn from some of the most renowned theatre-makers in the world.
by Stephi Wild - Mar 31, 2025
This Summer, as La MaMa Umbria celebrates the 26th year of its flagship program, directors and playwrights will have an opportunity to learn from some of the most renowned theatre-makers in the world.
Full Programme Set For Edinburgh International Festival 2025
by Stephi Wild - Mar 13, 2025
Edinburgh International Festival will present a hand-picked selection of leading international and local artists in the world's Festival City, with 24 days of world-class opera, dance, music and theatre.
by Stephi Wild - Mar 13, 2025
Edinburgh International Festival will present a hand-picked selection of leading international and local artists in the world's Festival City, with 24 days of world-class opera, dance, music and theatre.
Video: Robert Eggers' NOSFERATU Trailer With Nicholas Hoult, Lily-Rose Depp & More
by Josh Sharpe - Sep 30, 2024
Focus Features has released the highly-anticipated first trailer for the new version of Nosferatu from director Robert Eggers.
by Josh Sharpe - Sep 30, 2024
Focus Features has released the highly-anticipated first trailer for the new version of Nosferatu from director Robert Eggers.
Jelani Remy, Emily Skeggs, and More Will Lead THE APPLE BOYS Industry Reading
by Stephi Wild - Sep 5, 2024
THE APPLE BOYS, a new fast-paced musical comedy set in Gilded Age Coney Island, with book by Jono Lyons and music and lyrics by 2017 Jonathan Larson Grant recipient Ben Bonnema, will have industry presentations on Monday, September 23 and Tuesday, September 24 in Manhattan at Ripley Grier 38th St. Studios.
by Stephi Wild - Sep 5, 2024
THE APPLE BOYS, a new fast-paced musical comedy set in Gilded Age Coney Island, with book by Jono Lyons and music and lyrics by 2017 Jonathan Larson Grant recipient Ben Bonnema, will have industry presentations on Monday, September 23 and Tuesday, September 24 in Manhattan at Ripley Grier 38th St. Studios.
National Ballet of Canada Brings FRONTIERS: CHOREOGRAPHERS OF CANADA to Sadler's Wells
by Stephi Wild - Jul 8, 2024
The National Ballet of Canada will present the UK premiere of Frontiers: Choreographers of Canada at Sadler’s Wells on Wednesday 2 – Sunday 6 October 2024.
by Stephi Wild - Jul 8, 2024
The National Ballet of Canada will present the UK premiere of Frontiers: Choreographers of Canada at Sadler’s Wells on Wednesday 2 – Sunday 6 October 2024.
Review: CYCLES, Barbican Centre
by Franco Milazzo - May 2, 2024
With their new work Cycles, it is clear that Boy Blue are at something of a crossroads.
by Franco Milazzo - May 2, 2024
With their new work Cycles, it is clear that Boy Blue are at something of a crossroads.
Theater Resources Unlimited Town Hall: Adding Accessibility To The D.E.I. Conversations In-Person & Virtual
by A.A. Cristi - Apr 17, 2024
Join Theater Resources Unlimited for their live monthly panel discussion on adding accessibility to D.E.I. conversations. The event, held both in-person and virtually, will be co-hosted by actor Carey Cox.
by A.A. Cristi - Apr 17, 2024
Join Theater Resources Unlimited for their live monthly panel discussion on adding accessibility to D.E.I. conversations. The event, held both in-person and virtually, will be co-hosted by actor Carey Cox.
Jelani Remy, Emily Skeggs & More to Star in THE APPLE BOYS Industry Reading
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Apr 10, 2024
Jelani Remy, Emily Skeggs and more will star in an industry reading of the new musical THE APPLE BOYS. Learn more about the show!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Apr 10, 2024
Jelani Remy, Emily Skeggs and more will star in an industry reading of the new musical THE APPLE BOYS. Learn more about the show!
BroadwayWorld's Olivier Awards 2024 Predictions
by BWW UK Critics - Apr 10, 2024
The 2024 Olivier Awards are fast approaching on April 14. Ahead of one of the most exciting nights in theatreland, our critics – Aliya Al-Hassan, Mica Blackwell, Alexander Cohen, Katie Kirkpatrick, Kat Mokrynski, Gary Naylor, Kerrie Nicholson, Matthew Paluch and Christiana Rose share their thoughts about who and what will triumph on the night, as well as who should twin each category.
by BWW UK Critics - Apr 10, 2024
The 2024 Olivier Awards are fast approaching on April 14. Ahead of one of the most exciting nights in theatreland, our critics – Aliya Al-Hassan, Mica Blackwell, Alexander Cohen, Katie Kirkpatrick, Kat Mokrynski, Gary Naylor, Kerrie Nicholson, Matthew Paluch and Christiana Rose share their thoughts about who and what will triumph on the night, as well as who should twin each category.
Melody Bates And 5th Wall Studio to Present ALL THE BIRDS OF THE WORLD
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 13, 2024
Melody Bates, in partnership with 5th Wall Studio, will present All the Birds of the World, part of her Enchanted Islands. Learn how to purchase tickets.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 13, 2024
Melody Bates, in partnership with 5th Wall Studio, will present All the Birds of the World, part of her Enchanted Islands. Learn how to purchase tickets.
San Francisco Symphony Music Director Esa-Pekka Salonen Announced As 2024 Polar Music Prize Laureate
by A.A. Cristi - Mar 12, 2024
Esa-Pekka Salonen, renowned conductor and composer, has been named the 2024 Polar Music Prize Laureate.
by A.A. Cristi - Mar 12, 2024
Esa-Pekka Salonen, renowned conductor and composer, has been named the 2024 Polar Music Prize Laureate.
Review: BALLET NATIONAL DE MARSEILLE: ROOMMATES, Queen Elizabeth Hall
by Franco Milazzo - Mar 2, 2024
With an eclectic programme including an immersive dreamscape, an intense two-hander and a revolutionary footstomper, the Ballet national de Marseille present a six-pack of impressive dance pieces.
by Franco Milazzo - Mar 2, 2024
With an eclectic programme including an immersive dreamscape, an intense two-hander and a revolutionary footstomper, the Ballet national de Marseille present a six-pack of impressive dance pieces.
Review: THE MAGIC FLUTE, London Coliseum
by Alexander Cohen - Feb 29, 2024
It’s odd to watch an opera where the actual opera is an afterthought. At least that’s how it feels watching Simon McBurney’s The Magic Flute. His revival production sizzles with circus spectacle, high tech pageantry, and boundary breaking chutzpah. But underneath it all you’ll be hard pressed to find the warmth of a beating heart.
by Alexander Cohen - Feb 29, 2024
It’s odd to watch an opera where the actual opera is an afterthought. At least that’s how it feels watching Simon McBurney’s The Magic Flute. His revival production sizzles with circus spectacle, high tech pageantry, and boundary breaking chutzpah. But underneath it all you’ll be hard pressed to find the warmth of a beating heart.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many Broadway shows has Simon McBurney been in?
Simon McBurney has appeared on Broadway in 1 shows.
How many West End shows has Simon McBurney been in?
Simon McBurney has not appeared in the West End.
What awards has Simon McBurney been nominated for?
Distinguished Performance Award (Drama League Awards) for The Encounter, Outstanding Solo Performance (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for The Encounter, Best Director (Olivier Awards) for The Master And Margarita, Best New Play (Olivier Awards) for A Disappearing Number, Outstanding Director (The Lortels) for Mnemonic, Outstanding Director - Play (Drama Desk Awards) for The Chairs, Outstanding Director - Play (Drama Desk Awards) for The Chairs, Best Theatre Choreographer (Olivier Awards) for The Caucasian Chalk Circle, Best Direction of a Play (Tony Awards) for The Chairs, Best Director of a Play (Olivier Awards) for The Three Lives Of Lucie Cabrol, Best Director of a Play (Olivier Awards) for The Three Lives Of Lucie Cabrol and Best Director of a Play (Olivier Awards) for The Street Of Crocodiles.
What awards has Simon McBurney won?
Simon McBurney has won several awards, including Outstanding Solo Performance at the Outer Critics Circle Awards for The Encounter, Best New Play at the Olivier Awards for A Disappearing Number, Outstanding Director - Play at the Drama Desk Awards for The Chairs, and Best Theatre Choreographer at the Olivier Awards for The Caucasian Chalk Circle.
How many shows has Simon McBurney written?
Simon McBurney has written 3 shows including Mnemonic (Playwright), The Encounter (Writer), The Kid Stays in the Picture (Creator).
Videos