Hilary Mantel Chats WOLF HALL Edits for Broadway Run

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, WOLF HALL and BRING UP THE BODIES author Hilary Mantel discussed her involvement in adapting her novels for Broadway and how taking her stories to the stage has informed the writing of her third book, THE MIRROR AND THE LIGHT.

She told THR the West End version of WOLF HALL: PARTS 1 & 2 has "been slightly shortened because of Broadway's later starting times". Mantel has also "changed some terms likely to be unfamiliar to American audiences" and "'toned down' some of the obscenities."

Commenting on the changes, Mantel said: "I wouldn't have it any other way, because this is the pinnacle of my writing life. I love the theater -- I always have -- but I never thought I'd get the chance to actually work in it."

Mantel has been involved "scene by scene, line by line" alongside playwright Mike Poulton, who she said "deserves primary credit."

The author has also continued to make tweaks to the plays during their final preview performances.

The stage version of WOLF HALL has also informed Mantel's work on the third novel. "I even write during rehearsals," she said.

Mantel is appearing at several performances this month to sign copies of her books.

After critically acclaimed and sold out engagements at the Royal Shakespeare Company's Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon and at the Aldwych Theatre in London, the theatrical event WOLF HALL: PARTS 1 & 2 began performances on Broadway on Friday, March 20, 2015, at the Winter Garden Theatre. Opening day will be held on April 9, 2015. The production is directed by Olivier Award nominee Jeremy Herrin, who makes his New York City directing debut.

WOLF HALL: PARTS 1 & 2, which explores the deceit, betrayal, and intrigue of the court of Henry VIII, is written by Dame Hilary Mantel and adapted by Mike Poulton. This special event invites theatergoers to be part of a unique theatrical experience, similar to the Royal Shakespeare Company's award winning production of The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby. Both parts of the production can either be seen in one day with a dinner break of approximately two-and-a-half hours, or can be seen on two different days.