Duration
1 hr 55 mins with 1 interval
Closing Date
Until August 29, 2026
Age limit
Suitable for 12+ yrs
Why Watch The Car Man?
- Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man transforms Bizet’s classic into a 1950s American garage-diner dance thriller, now in London’s vibrant musical scene.
- A multi-award-winning production, The Car Man is directed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne, famed for his bold storytelling and inventive dance.
- Expect themes of passion, betrayal, and revenge, brought to life with athletic choreography, atmospheric sets, and Bizet’s instantly recognizable score.
- This strictly limited run at Sadler’s Wells is a critic favorite—Observer calls it “a shatteringly good piece of storytelling.” Book now before tickets speed away.
Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man is a genre-defying dance musical, inspired by Bizet’s opera but set in a sultry 1950s American Midwest garage-diner. Famed for its bold storytelling and athletic choreography, this Olivier Award-winning show returns to London for a limited run at Sadler’s Wells. With a score reimagined by Terry Davies and Rodion Shchedrin, and a creative team led by Bourne, it’s a thrilling ride through lust, betrayal, and revenge. Critics and audiences alike rave about its energy and edge—making it a must for dance, musical, and drama fans alike.
Storyline
In a sleepy 1950s American town, a mysterious stranger arrives at a garage-diner, igniting simmering passions and exposing hidden desires. As relationships spiral into a web of greed, lust, and betrayal, the community’s veneer of normalcy cracks. Fueled by Bizet’s iconic score and Matthew Bourne’s storytelling, the stakes climb with every step. Who will survive the heat when revenge comes calling?
Show timings
Show timings for The Car Man may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & Crew
Leading roles: Will Bozier as Luca, Zizi Strallen as Lana, Paris Fitzpatrick as Angelo, Ashley Shaw as Rita
Director: Matthew Bourne
Choreographer: Matthew Bourne
Music/Composer: Rodion Shchedrin (after Bizet)
Set designer: Lez Brotherston
Costume designer: Lez Brotherston
Age Suitability
This show is suitable for ages 12 and above.
Content warning: Contains adult themes, violence, and scenes of a sexual nature. User’s discretion is advised.
Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show
About Theatre
Sadler's Wells is a venue for performing arts on Rosebery Avenue, near New River Head, in Clerkenwell, London, England. It has two performance arenas, a 1,500-seat main auditorium, and the Lilian Baylis Studio—as well as other rehearsal areas and technical support spaces on the same property. Sadler's Wells is regarded as one of the premier dancing venues in the world.
Getting There
Address: Rosebery Avenue, London EC1R 4TN, United Kingdom
Train: The nearest tube stations are Angel (Northern line) and Farringdon (Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines).
Bus: - 19
- 38
- 341
Facilities & Accessibility
Available facilities: Bar, Cloakroom, Restrooms, Elevator, Lounge
Accessibility: wheelchair accessible, accessible restrooms, companion seating, Wheelchair accessible, Accessible restrooms, Companion seating, Hearing assistance devices
Additional Information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets Redemption
You will receive an email with your The Car Man voucher. No need to print. Please carry a valid photo ID for identification.
Cancellation & Refunds
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions
The cost of the tickets will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
The show does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 12 and above as it contains certain adult themes.
The show is playing at Sadler's Wells in London.
The running time is 1 hour 55 minutes with an intermission.
