The King’s Speech – the play from which the Oscar-winning movie that starred Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush was adapted – will appear at Malvern Theatres from Monday April 27 to Saturday May 2.

Great British Life: Raymond Coulthard as King George VIRaymond Coulthard as King George VI (Image: Archant)

The King’s Speech tells the iconic story of King George VI’s relationship with his speech therapist, as the country stands on the brink of World War II. It enjoyed an acclaimed West End season in 2012.

The play was adapted into one of the most successful British films of all time, winning four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Director, as well as seven BAFTAs, including Best Film.

Jason Donovan plays Lionel Logue, the unconventional Australian speech therapist that coaches the King to deliver his momentous speech, depicted in the 2010 film by Geoffrey Rush. His theatre credits include Sweeney Todd, The Sound of Music, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Priscilla Queen of the Desert.

Of the production, Jason said: “I am really looking forward to starting rehearsals for The King’s Speech and getting into the character of Logue. He was such an interesting and remarkable Australian, who achieved so much in a very challenging situation and I think he will be fascinating to play.”

Raymond Coulthard plays King George VI. His extensive theatre credits include most recently Heartbreak Hotel at Chichester Festival Theatre, The Heresy of Love and Measure for Measure for the RSC and Women Beware Women at the National Theatre. On televison, he is best known for playing the role of Miles Egerton in ITV’s Mr Selfridge on ITV and played James Schofield in Hotel Babylon on BBC.

Of the production, Raymond said: “Having been away from theatre for a couple of years I was hoping to find a project that would truly challenge me. I think it is safe to say I have found it!”

Great British Life: Claire Lams as Queen ElizabethClaire Lams as Queen Elizabeth (Image: Archant)

The production will be directed by Roxana Silbert, Artistic Director of Birmingham Repertory Theatre.

The King’s Speech will be appearing at Malvern Theatres from Monday April 27 to Saturday May 2. Tickets are on sale at the Box Office 01684 892277 and online at malvern-theatres.co.uk.