Shows To See At The National Theatre London
Ever taken a walk down the South Bank? Chances are, you passed the National Theatre London
Established in 1963, and now reaching audiences not just in London, but across the UK and even around the world, It's not just the large, brutalist-style and warm, glowy lights that attract people - it's the stories inside waiting on one of its three stages which each offer something different - whether it be Olivier, Lyttelton, and Dorfman Theatres! There's an incredible line-up of National Theatre plays on right now and up and upcoming. What will you be seeing?
National Theatre London Productions
Hamlet
25 Sep - 22 Nov
National Theatre, Lyttelton
As part of The National Theatre's biggest season yet, Olivier Award-winner Hiran Abeysekera (The Father and the Assassin, Life of Pi) steps into the shoes of the titular Danish Prince as his life descends into a heady tale of grief, betrayal, and bloody revenge in Shakespeare's famous and fearless tragedy.
The Playboy Of The Western World
4 Dec - 28 Feb 2026
National Theatre, Lyttelton
Artistic director of Dublin's Abbey Theatre, Catriona McLaughin, revives J M Synge's rich Irish play at the National Theatre this winter! A stellar Irish cast with a slew of awards and nominations between them leads the performance, with Bridgerton's Nicola Coughlan, anna Hardwicke (The Sixth Commandment) and Derry Girls' Siobhn McSweeney all featuring in this brilliant classic which was central to the Literary Revival movement in Ireland.
Inter Alia
Showing until 13 Sep
National Theatre, Lyttelton
The National Theatre hosts the world premiere of Inter Alia, a bold new play by the award-winning playwright Suzie Miller (Prima Facie). Starring Oscar and BAFTA nominee Rosamund Pike in her debut performance at the National Theatre, Inter Alia looks at the precarious balancing act of motherhood, professional ambition and masculinity in the modern world. Directed by Justin Martin who worked with Miller on Prima Facie, Pike will be joined on stage by Jamie Glover (Waterloo Road) and Jasper Talbot (Redlands), for this gripping exploration of life's most complex roles.
The Bacchae
13 Sep - 1 Nov
National Theatre, Olivier
National Theatre's new Director, Indhu Rubasingham (The Father and the Assassin), launches the eagerly awaited, star-packed season with a fresh take on Euripides' legendary tragedy, reimagined by Heartstopper's Nima Taleghani and brought to life with rhythm, movement, and music. Bacchae was written by Athenian playwright Euripides and out of over 90 plays was widely considered one of his greatest works, especially his most spectacular tragedy.
Ballet Shoes
17 Nov - 21 Feb 2026
National Theatre, Olivier
In a once-grand house cluttered with relics of the past, three sisters are discovering themselves and the people they want to become. Adopted into an unconventional family, the girls do everything they can to pursue their dreams. But as they strive to carve out their places in a society not ready to embrace ambitious young women, will their sisterly bond and unbreakable spirit carry them through?
Nye
Showing until 16 Aug
National Theatre, Olivier
Following a triumphant run resulting in two WhatsOnStage Award nominations, Welsh playwright Tim Price's telling of the life and times of NHS founder Aneurin "Nye" Bevan returns to the stage this year! With the part of Nye reprised by the decorated Michael Sheen, the production was described by the Telegraph as "a valuable and valiant affirmation of the NHS".
Upcoming Shows
Death Of A Salesman
Dates to be confirmed
National Theatre, Lyttelton
The magic of Paul Mescal heads to The National's Lyttelton Theatre in 2027 as Rebecca Frecknall directs Arthur Miller's classic work, Death Of A Salesman. With a star-studded cast to boot (Star of Gladiator 2 and Olivier Award Winner Paul Mescal to name a few) this revival is sure to be one of the most talked about events in 2026!
A Whistle in the Dark
Dates to be confirmed
National Theatre, Lyttelton
The Abbey Theatre Ireland's national theatre is joining forces with the National Theatre of Great Britain for a major new co-production of Tom Murphy's A Whistle in the Dark, directed by the Abbey's Co-Director and Artistic Director, Caitrona McLaughlin. Starring Olivier award-winning Paul Mescal (Normal People, Aftersun), this will be his National Theatre debut. The production will premiere in London before transferring to the Abbey Theatre in 2027.
