Kyoto is an intense drama based on the 1997 conference in Japan that set the path for global climate action.

What age group is the show appropriate for?

The show contains explicit language and serious themes. Please use your discretion while purchasing tickets.

Where is Kyoto playing in London?

Fresh from its critically-acclaimed run at the RSC's Swan Theatre, the play will continue its stint at @sohoplace in London.

The play runs for 2 hours and 45 minutes, including a 20-minute interval.

Kyoto

Plays

Stars on StageTrue StoryDramaPlay

Kyoto text with Earth illustration in the center.

Duration

2 hrs 45 mins

Closing Date

Until May 3, 2025

Why Watch Kyoto?

Witness the creative genius of four theatrical titans – Stephen Daldry (The Crown), Justin Martin (Stranger Things: The First Shadow), and the award-winning writers of The Jungle.
Featuring Tony-nominated actor Stephen Kunken in a tour-de-force performance as the manipulative oil lobbyist Don Pearlman.
Following a critically acclaimed run at the RSC's Swan Theatre, where it was hailed as "sheer theatrical magic" (WhatsOnStage), this timely masterpiece (re)tells a story that has never been more relevant.
Inspired by real-life events, the play takes you inside the room where the infamous Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997, transforming the diplomatic deadlock into a "tense and gripping" (Guardian) drama

Nearly 3 hours of run-time, a strictly limited space, and an unlikely event of immense intrigue spell a recipe for disaster. Fortunately, some of London’s widely regarded talents have joined hands to transform the chaos into a white-knuckle diplomatic thriller. Around the confines of a conference table, the extraordinary ensemble cast delivers a "towering performance" (WhatsOnStage), negotiating humor into a high-stakes political drama. As climate change continues to dominate headlines, this story of hope against impossible odds resonates more powerfully than ever.

Show timings

Show timings for Kyoto may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.

Cast & Crew

Directors: Stephen Daldry & Justin Martin
Writers: Joe Murphy & Joe Robertson
Set Designer: Miriam Buether
Costume Designer: Natalie Pryce
Lighting Designer: Aideen Malone
Sound Designer: Christopher Reid
Leading roles: Stephen Kunken as Don Pearlman, Jenna Augen as Shirley, Jorge Bosch as Raul Estrada-Oyuela, Olivia Barrowclough as Secretariat, Nancy Crane as USA, Andrea Gatchalian as AOSIS/Kiribati, Tago Igawa as Japan/Ohki, Kwong Loke as China/Zhong, and Ferdy Roberts as UK/Prescott/Houghton.

About Theatre

The first newly built theater on the West End in 50 years, @sohoplace was the culmination of a 12-year project. Despite being relatively new, the theater has earned a respected place in London’s theater scene owing to its unique programming under the ownership of Nica Burns.

The @sohoplace Seating Plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.

Getting There

Address: 4 Soho Pl, Charing Cross Rd, London W1D 3BG, United Kingdom

Tube: Tottenham Court Road Station (Elizabeth Line) is the closest to the venue.

Bus: Take any among the 14, 19, 22b, 24, 29, 38, or 176 buses to Covent Garden, closest to the venue.

Train: Charing Cross Station is a 15-18 minute walk or short ride from the theater.

Facilities & Accessibility

Available facilities: Bar, air-conditioning, restrooms, lift

Accessibility: wheelchair spaces available, Accessible toilets, assistance dogs allowed

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.