Hollywood film star Liam Neeson is confirmed to make his West End debut in March in the world premiere of David Hare's new play The Judas Kiss.

Neeson will play Oscar Wilde in a story that explores the relationship between the legendary playwright and lit wit and his lover Lord Alfred Douglas (nicknamed Bosie).

The play is produced by the renowned off-West End venue, the Almeida Theatre in north London, but will be staged in the West End at the Playhouse Theatre from 12 March - 18 April.

Sir Richard Eyre, former artistic director of the Royal National Theatre, will direct in his first production since leaving the RNT in September. Tom Hollander, currently appearing the Almeida's The Government Inspector, will play Bosie.

David Hare's last play, Amy's View starring Dame Judi Dench, transfers to the West End's Aldwych Theatre in January after a sell-out run at the National Theatre. At the Almeida, Hare has recently been involved in two highly acclaimed productions - Chekhov's Ivanov, starring Ralph Fiennes, which he adapted; and Bernard Shaw's Heartbreak House, starring Patricia Hodge, which he directed.