The two productions, both cast with the same acting ensemble lead by Ian McKellen, will play in repertory at Stratford-upon-Avon’s new Courtyard Theatre from March 2007 before going on a world tour.

McKellen will play the title role in King Lear, which will conclude the RSC’s year-long Complete Works Festival, and also appear as Sorin in The Seagull.

Nunn, who was the RSC’s artistic director from 1968 to 1986 said, “For many years now I have been hoping to return to my theatrical roots in the RSC, and for even longer, I have been looking forward to the fulfilment of the vow Ian McKellen and I made that one day we would do King Lear together. Add to that the fact that we both believe in Ensemble work playing in repertoire, and you have the background of this exciting plan to perform these two plays with the same cast in Stratford-upon-Avon.”

Next month Nunn makes his directorial debut at the Royal Court with the world premier of Tom Stoppard’s Rock and Roll. That play starts previewing June 3, officially opening June 14. Rock 'N' Roll then transfers to the West End’s Duke of York’s Theatre from July 22.

Public booking for King Lear and The Seagul opens Sept. 2006, and for RSC members in July. For more on King Lear and The Seagull call (0)870 7845 0512.