Michael Sheen has confirmed his position as one of Britain's most talented actors by delivering an extraordinary performance on the opening night of Hamlet.

The Welshman took the title role in the new production of the Shakespeare tragedy - set in a mental asylum - at London's Young Vic, directed by Ian Rickson.

Sheen received a standing ovation for his emotionally intense interpretation of Hamlet, in a production that saw moments of dark comedy in his descent into madness.

Stars including Sheen's actress girlfriend Rachel McAdams, actress Kristen Scott Thomas, model Lily Cole, Mighty Boosh actor Julian Barratt, comic actress Julia Davis, Take That singer Jason Orange and his partner Catherine Tate were among the audience at the south London theatre.

Scott Thomas said after the performance: "I'm quite overwhelmed. I feel like I've been through the mill. It is a descent into madness which is your nightmare."

Barratt said: "I thought it was tremendous. I really loved where it was set and liked the moments of black humour."

Orange said he "loved it" and added: "It was brilliant."

Members of Sheen's family, including his parents, were also at the theatre for the play, which takes audience members on a "pre-show journey" through backstage areas before they enter on the stage itself.

Sheen has previously won critical acclaim for his portrayal of former prime minister Tony Blair, interviewer David Frost and football manager Brian Clough.

The play, to run until January 21, sold out soon after tickets went on sale.