It's no secret that despite splitting the last book into two films, Lionsgate is seeking out more ways to milk the HUNGER GAMES tit. While the idea of more sequels are up in the air at this point, the next step in the evolution of Katniss and her bow of master-tude (that may or may not be a thing) is a live-action play. Lionsgate will be partnering up with Imagine Nation and Triangular Entertainment to bring this to fruition by the summer of 2016. After all, you can't wait too long after the movies have come and gone, ya know? As of now, there is a theater that's being built next to Wembley Stadium in London for the sole purpose of presenting this stage version. A traveling exhibit is in the works as well, although no details were given on that front.
Lionsgate Chief Marketing Officer Tim Palen had this to say:
Robin de Levita and the entire production team are the perfect partners for extending The Hunger Games franchise into a live theatrical experience. Their creative genius, combined with world-class production values and state-of-the-art technology will provide a uniquely immersive experience for fans around the world.
Admittedly I do not have my finger on the pulse of the stage community, but there's no doubting the market that's there for it. If I had to fathom a guess, I'd wager that Lionsgate is aiming to pull in the film and book fans to wherever this play ends up hitting across the world. Kinda makes you wonder what would be next if film-to-play adaptations grow more popular over the years. Michael Bay's TRANSFORMERS: The Play? Seth Rogen's NEIGHBORS: The Play? Lars von Trier's NYMPHOMANIAC? The possibilities are endless!
The film version of THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY – PART 1 hits theaters November 21.