Freeman, who is best known for his appearances on TV's "Sherlock" (as Dr. Watson) and "The Office" (in which he played Tim) and on film in "The Hobbit Trilogy" (in which he played Bilbo Baggins), was last on stage in 2010 in the premiere of Bruce Norris' Clybourne Park at the Royal Court Theatre, directed by Dominic Cooke. Other stage credits include Kathy Burke’s Kosher Harry, also at the Royal Court Theatre, and Blue Eyes and Heels by Toby Whithouse at Soho Theatre. He is soon to be seen in the Coen brothers TV adaptation of "Fargo." Other screen credits include "Worlds End," "Shaun of the Dead," "Hot Fuzz," "The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy" and "Love Actually."

Jamie Lloyd's first season of Trafalgar Transformed last year comprised Macbeth, starring James McAvoy; The Hothouse, starring John Simm and Simon Russell Beale; and The Pride, starring Hayley Atwell and Mathew Horne.

In a press statement, Lloyd commented, "I am thrilled to be returning to our transformed space at Trafalgar Studios and am delighted to kick off our second season with Shakespeare's astonishing power play, Richard III.

"Last year, through our £15 Mondays scheme, a staggering 51% of the audience was comprised of first-time theatregoers, targeted with the help of organisations like the inspiring Mousetrap Theatre Projects (of which I am now a patron). I am confident that, with the brilliant and hugely popular Martin Freeman playing the title role in a provocative production, we will continue to attract a generational mix of theatregoers to our corner of the West End. I have wanted to work with Martin for many years and am sure he will bring something unexpected and unique to this iconic role."

For further details, visit www.trafalgartransformed.com.