Shadowlands - Tickets

4.8(225 ratings)

Shadowlands

Plays

Aldwych Theatre

Shadowlands Westend show poster with actors in front of Oxford skyline

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

Stage scene from Shadowlands performance, West End, featuring actors in a library setting.

Stage performance of "Shadowlands" in West End with actors in period costumes at a table.

Stage scene from Shadowlands, Westend, featuring two actors in an emotional embrace.

Stage scene from Shadowlands in Westend with a man standing before a tree backdrop.

Stage scene from Shadowlands in Westend, actor at desk with lamp and papers.

Performer in Shadowlands stage show, West End, gesturing expressively.

Actor in a scene from Shadowlands stage performance, Westend.

Stage performance of Shadowlands in Westend, actor in plaid coat with bookshelves in background.

Child and woman on stage during Shadowlands performance, Westend.

Actor performing in Shadowlands, Westend stage production.

Stage performance of "Shadowlands" in West End with two actors in a library setting.

Stage actors holding hands during Shadowlands performance, West End.

Stage performance of Shadowlands in Westend with two actors in suits.

Stage actors in Shadowlands, Westend, holding wine glasses during a performance.

CLOSING DATE

Until May 9, 2026

AGE LIMIT

Suitable for 12+ yrs

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AboutVenueTicketsReviews

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

Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.

Age & content guide

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!

Aldwych Theatre Read more

The Aldwych Theatre, a landmark West End venue, has hosted premieres and performances since 1905. Known for its elegant Edwardian interiors, ornate auditorium, and excellent acoustics, it remains a prime destination for drama and plays. Past performances have included acclaimed productions such as A Streetcar Named Desire and The 39 Steps, along with appearances by notable actors including Judi Dench, Ian McKellen, and Maggie Smith, maintaining its reputation as a cultural hub.

The Aldwych Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.

Getting there

Address: Aldwych Theatre, 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF, United Kingdom
Tube: The nearest tube stations are Temple (Circle & District lines) and Covent Garden (Piccadilly line).
Bus: Buses 1, 9, 11, 15, 23, 139, 176 serve the area around the theatre.

Facilities & accessibility

Available facilities: restrooms, bar, cloakroom

Accessibility: wheelchair accessible, hearing assistance, access performances, step-free 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.

Tickets redemption

You’ll get an instant email confirmation right after you book your tickets.
Enjoy a hassle-free entrance to the venue by showing your mobile ticket and a valid photo ID – no printout necessary!

Cancellation & refunds

Tickets cannot be refunded, amended, or rescheduled.

Ratings & reviews

4.8

225 ratings

200

Hilary

May 2026Verified booking

5/5

The show was great. Only problem was the seating: myself and my daughter are both slim/normal size women, so were fine with the narrow seats in the top of the grand circle. The man next to us was very large and overweight, and spread his body over half of my daughter's seat...unpleasant to have his legs rubbing against hers! We tried to squash up on my seat, but the more we moved, he just took up more soace! Luckily we could move to some empty seats lower down in the interval. The size of the seat is stated when booking, but maybe add a warning that they're not suitable for large/tall people....even though they are cheaper seats, it's still an expensive night out, and frankly, this spoilt the first half for us, as was uncomfortable physically and emotionally.

Oliver

May 2026Verified booking

3/5

I liked the play; knowing something of the background I grasped the way in which the relationship between Jack and Joy developed - emphasis very much on Jack's persepctive. I like the way margaret Siff inhacited the role of Joy. My main beef is that for all his qualities, I dpon;t think Hugh Bonneville was the right actor to cast as CS Lewis - northern Irish, bluff; Bonneville was too quiet voiced (southern English). It must however have been very testing for him to play the second act night by night through a longish season. As other have commented, the Aldwych doesn't offer much in the way of leg room.

Mrs

May 2026Verified booking

5/5

I rarely go to the theatre and so even the theatre itself was interesting and I felt like a rich person! Hugh Bonneville was brilliant as CS Lewis and also the actress playing Joy. It was funny, it was moving, stirring, thought provoking, - a wonderful time with my friends. The voices were a bit quiet though from where we were sitting. That's the only thing I'd change. Maybe they could wear mikes or something to amplify their voices.

Lindsay

May 2026Verified booking

5/5

What a gorgeous show. I have seen the movie many times, so I thought I knew what to expect, but the performers managed to offer us humor mixed with deep loss, which left many of us in the audience laughing through our tears. It's not often that a performance will make you laugh, cry, and leave you with lessons that stay with you long after the curtain has come down.

Dennis

May 2026Verified booking

5/5

Shadowlands is an intense and challenging theatrical performance. The lead actors, Hugh Bonneville and Maggie Siff, not only offer memorable portrayals of their characters, they leave you with profound questions to consider afterwards. It's a show you don't want to miss nor one you'll easily forget.