'Mr Bean' star Atkinson set to return with new comedy stage show

British actor and comedian Rowan Atkinson is set to return to London's West End after four decades with a new stage production featuring some of his most famous comedy characters. The 71-year-old star will headline Rowan Live, a limited theatrical run combining classic sketches, familiar characters and new material. The show will be staged at the Gillian Lynne Theatre from February 8 to March 13, 2027, with 30 performances planned. Mr Bean and Blackadder return Atkinson is expected to revisit two of his best-known characters, the eccentric Mr Bean and the troublesome Edmund Blackadder. View this post on Instagram A post shared by LW Theatres (@lwtheatres) The roles played a major part in establishing Atkinson as one of Britain's most recognisable comedy performers. The upcoming production will not simply recreate his earlier work. Atkinson plans to combine selected classic sketches with new material written specifically for the stage show. A return after four decades The production marks a significant return to West End comedy for Atkinson, who has said it has been 40 years since he last appeared in a comedy sketch show in the West End. The show will also draw on his early creative collaborations with writer Richard Curtis. A teaser released ahead of the announcement features Atkinson going through his old costumes before revealing plans for his return to the stage. The preview also offers a glimpse of Gerald the Gorilla from Not the Nine O'Clock News, alongside appearances linked to Blackadder and Mr Bean. Rowan Live is scheduled to begin performances in London in February 2027.