Is there an age restriction?

The play is recommended for ages 12 and above. Children under 5 are not permitted.

Where is the theatre located?

The Aldwych Theatre, 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF.

Are there wheelchair-accessible seats?

Yes, the theatre offers wheelchair accessible seating and companion seats.

Can I bring outside food?

Outside food is not allowed, but nearby cafes and restaurants are available.

Are there security checks at the theatre?

Yes, standard security checks are conducted for all visitors.

Who stars in the play?

Hugh Bonneville stars as C.S. Lewis, and Lara Rossi plays Joy Davidman.

Who directed the play?

The production is directed by Rachel Kavanaugh.

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Shadowlands

Plays

Aldwych Theatre

Child and elderly man playing chess on stage during Shadowlands performance, Westend.

Duration

2 hrs 20 mins

Closing Date

Until May 9, 2026

Age limit

Suitable for 12+ yrs

Why Watch Shadowlands?

BAFTA, Emmy, and Golden Globe nominee Hugh Bonneville brings depth and nuance to C.S. Lewis, capturing his wit, intellect, and vulnerability.
The production is directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, celebrated for her innovative staging and award-winning theatre work.
The play explores love, faith, grief, and personal transformation, taking audiences through a layered emotional journey.
Set in mid-20th-century Oxford, it features meticulously designed period sets and authentic costumes, enhancing historical immersion.
Staged at the historic Aldwych Theatre, this West End run offers an intimate and memorable theatrical experience, blending storytelling, performance, and design.

Shadowlands is a poignant drama that explores the unexpected love story between C.S. Lewis, the esteemed author of The Chronicles of Narnia, and American poet Joy Davidman. Their relationship, beginning as a friendship, evolves into a deep and transformative bond. The play delves into themes of love, faith, and the human condition, offering audiences a heartfelt narrative. With a talented cast and a compelling storyline, Shadowlands promises an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Storyline

In 1950s Oxford, C.S. Lewis, a reserved academic, meets Joy Davidman, an American poet. Their intellectual connection deepens into a profound emotional bond. As their relationship grows, they face challenges that test their beliefs and understanding of love. The story unfolds with grace and sensitivity, leading to a poignant conclusion that resonates with audiences. Will their love withstand the trials they face? Discover the touching journey of C.S. Lewis and Joy Davidman in Shadowlands.

Show timings

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

Cast & Crew

Leading roles: Hugh Bonneville as C.S. Lewis, Lara Rossi as Joy Davidman
Director: Rachel Kavanaugh
Producer: Dominic Madden
Playwright: William Nicholson
Set designer: Miriam Buether
Costume designer: Sue Blane

Age Suitability

This show is suitable for ages 12 and above.
Content warning: The play contains themes of grief, loss, and emotional trauma. Viewer discretion is advised.
Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Most theatres are air-conditioned year-round, so it can get a bit chilly. Bring a light jacket just in case.

Aldwych Theatre

The Aldwych Theatre is a historic, Grade II–listed West End venue that opened on 23 December 1905. Designed by W. G. R. Sprague in an elegant Edwardian-Baroque/Georgian style, it seats around 1,200 across three levels. Its opulent interior and classic proportions have hosted everything from early 20th‑century pantomimes and Aldwych farces to modern musicals like Tina: The Tina Turner Musical and now Elf the Musical. The Aldwych Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.

Getting There

Address: 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF, UK
By metro:
The nearest tube stations are Temple (served by the Circle and District Lines) and Holborn (served by the Central and Piccadilly Lines). You can also get off at Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line) or Charing Cross (Northern and Bakerloo Lines) stations, from where the theater is about a 7-minute walk.
By train:
Charing Cross is the nearest mainline station. Aldwych Theatre is a 7-minute walk from there.
By bus:
Take bus routes 1, 4, 26, 59, 68, 76, 168, 171, 172, 188, 243, 341, or 521 and get off at Aldwych Somerset House (Stop S) on The Strand. The theater is a 3-minute walk from the bus stop. You can also take a bus from routes 6, 9, 87, 243 and 341 and get off at Aldwych Kingsway (Stop F) or Aldwych Drury Lane (Stop E) located on either side of the theater.
By car:
Aldwych Theatre is part of Q-Park’s Theatreland Parking Scheme with the nearest car park facility available in Chinatown and Charing Cross. Validate your ticket at the foyer and you may get 50% off on parking charges.

Facilities & Accessibility

Amenities: Dining outlets, Cloak room, Toilets, Wifi, Souvenir shop

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, Service animals allowed, Elevator access

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.