STAGE and screen star Hugh Bonneville is returning to the Mercury Theatre, where he began his career, for an evening of conversation.
Mercury artistic director Natasha Rickman will host the event on Sunday, October 11.
Hugh will discuss his film and television career, his early theatre days and his work as a children’s author.
Natasha said: "We’re incredibly grateful Hugh is returning to the Mercury stage in this one-off fundraising event.
"We hope you can join us for an evening reflecting on his glittering career and highlighting his time at the Mercury, while also making a difference beyond the stage.
"The money raised will support our work in the local community, helping us provide artistic opportunities to people of all backgrounds without cost being a barrier."
The event will coincide with the launch of Hugh’s latest children’s book, Rory Sparkes and the Spy Who Loved Tea.
All proceeds will support the Mercury Theatre’s outreach programmes for young people, schools, families and communities across Essex.
Hugh began his professional career at the Mercury in 1988-89 with the Mercury Repertory Company.
During his time there he appeared in productions including The Taming of the Shrew, Look Back in Anger, The Circle and Taking Steps.
He also played Dame Sarah the Cook in Dick Whittington.
Hugh has since become a familiar face on screen and stage, with roles at The National Theatre and The Royal Shakespeare Company.
He is best known as the Earl of Grantham in Downton Abbey, earning a Golden Globe nomination and two Emmy nominations for the role.
Other notable roles include Mr Brown in the Paddington films, BBC comedy Twenty Twelve, drama series The Gold and thriller I Came By.
Hugh also published his memoir, Playing Under the Piano, in 2022.
His first children’s book, Rory Sparkes and the Elephant in the Room, was published in 2025.
Read more
A limited number of VIP tickets are available, including the opportunity to meet Hugh and have a photo taken with him before the event.
The event is suitable for ages 12 and above, and under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Tickets are available from the Mercury Theatre website.
Share