Danish actor Connie Nielsen will make her theater debut at Nørrebro Teater in Copenhagen, in a new staging of “Farlige forbindelser” that premieres on February 27, 2027.
DR reported on September 1 that Nielsen has been cast as Madame de Merteuil. The character is a vengeful aristocrat who sets a power game driven by desire in motion.
The production is described by Nørrebro Teater as a radical new interpretation of Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’ 1782 novel. The story has been adapted many times for film, television and stage.
The stage version is dramatized by Marie Bjørn and directed by Jennifer Vedsted Christiansen. Christiansen is also artistic director at the theater in Nørrebro.
According to a press release cited by DR, Nielsen said she finally agreed to return to the stage after a long film career. She pointed to the work being done at Nørrebro Teater and to the idea of re-examining Madame de Merteuil.
Christiansen said in the same press release that Nielsen holds both strength and vulnerability, as well as authority and humanity. Per the director, Nielsen has navigated international power structures throughout her career.
Cast and performance dates
Nielsen will act opposite actor and film director Christian Tafdrup, who plays Valmont. DR notes that Tafdrup has not worked in theater since 2017, while Politiken reports that he is returning to the stage after nine years.
The premiere is set for February 27, 2027 at Nørrebro Teater. The theater’s own website lists performances through March 24, 2027, while Ekko writes that the run continues until April 4, 2027.
Ekko also describes the project as the first time Nielsen has appeared on a stage. Politiken has confirmed the casting, the premiere date and the planned run.
Connie Nielsen has worked in international and Danish productions since the 1990s. One of her best known roles is Lucilla in “Gladiator” from 2000, a part she returned to in “Gladiator II” in 2024.
DR also notes her recent work in the television series “Robin Hood”, which is available on DR TV. Her filmography spans Hollywood features, European productions and Danish titles.
Nørrebro Teater has not announced further casting for the production. Ticket details for the run are listed on the theater’s website.
