David To Undergo Surgery Tomorrow

David is to undergo surgery for a prolapsed disc tomorrow and will not be returning to Hamlet before Christmas.
He has issued the following statement:
"It is hugely disappointing for me to have to miss these performances. My back problem has progressed to the point where it is currently impossible for me to carry on without surgery. I want to get back on stage as quickly as possible and I am very grateful to Ed who has courageously got to grips with the role but in a much shorter time. It's a fantastic achievement."