Duration
2 hrs 40 mins with interval
Closing Date
Until March 23, 2023
Age limit
Strictly for 5+ ##Know Before You Go
Why Watch The Motive and the Cue?
The Motive and the Cue offers a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into theatre production and the relationship between art and celebrity.
Starring Johnny Flynn as mega-star Richard Burton, Mark Gatiss as Gielgud and Tuppence Middleton as Taylor, the show is based on ‘Letters from an Actor’ written by William Redfield, and ‘John Gielgud Directs Richard Burton in Hamlet’ by Richard L. Stern.
The play features a blend of historical figures, personal conflicts, and creative storytelling. Secure your The Motive and the Cue tickets now to witness this unique take on theatrical magic!
The Motive and the Cue is a unique and intriguing theatrical experience directed by Sam Mendes and written by Jack Thorne. This show, set in the historic and grand Noel Coward Theatre, brings together a talented cast of seasoned theatre professionals who breathe life into the characters. The play offers a rare look into the exciting and often tumultuous world of theatre production, with the mega-star Richard Burton at its centre.
Its engaging narrative, blending historical figures and personal conflicts, has created quite a buzz, making The Motive and the Cue tickets a must-have possession. The stellar performances by Johnny Flynn as Burton, Mark Gatiss as Gielgud and Tuppence Middleton as Taylor and the unique storytelling have all the makings of a future award winner. Don't miss the opportunity to witness this captivating portrayal of theatrical magic.
Storyline
The Motive and the Cue is an enthralling play that delves into the world of theatre. The plot revolves around mega-star Richard Burton, freshly married to Elizabeth Taylor, preparing for the titular role in John Gielgud’s experimental production of Hamlet. As the rehearsals continue, the collaboration between the two theatre stalwarts threatens to come undone, creating a captivating narrative. The play offers an intriguing glimpse into the complexities of theatrical production and the clashes that can arise. Get your The Motive and the Cue tickets for a chance to witness an innovative take on theatre brought to life.
Show timings
Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri: 7:30 PM
Thu & Sat: 2 PM & 7:30 PM
Show timings for The Motive and the Cue may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & Crew
Leading Roles
Johnny Flynn as Burton
Mark Gatiss as Gielgud
Tuppence Middleton as Taylor
Director
Sam Mendes
Writer
Jack Thorne
Noël Coward Theatre
The Noel Coward Theatre, originally known as the New Theatre, is located on St. Martin's Lane in London. Opened in 1903 the theatre has hosted acclaimed Shakespeare stagings and stars like Judi Dench and Jude Law. With 872 seats across four levels—Stalls, Royal Circle, Grand Circle, and Balcony—it offers an intimate, world-class West End setting. Originally designed by W. G. R. Sprague with an elegant Rococo interior, this iconic Grade II listed venue pairs rich heritage with exceptional sightlines, making every drama, revival, and blockbuster run truly unforgettable.
The Noel Coward Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting There
- Address: 85-88 St Martin's Ln, London WC2N 4AP, UK
- By metro:
The nearest tube stations is Leicester Square Circus (Northern and Piccadilly lines).
- By train:
Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines) and Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern lines) — approx. 2–3 mins walk
- By bus:
24, 29, and 176 (stopping nearby on Charing Cross Road and St Martin's Lane)
Facilities & Accessibility
Amenities: Toilets, Dining outlets, Cloak room, Souvenir shop
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, Service animals allowed, Elevator access
Additional Information
Security: Please be aware that for your comfort and security all audience members will be subject to security checks upon arrival at Noel Coward Theatre.
Dress Code: Smart and casual wear is recommended. Keep in mind, the theater is air-conditioned throughout the year and can get a bit chilly.
Outside Food: Most theatres do not allow outside food inside the theatres but most of them also have a café or restaurant inside the premises or nearby.
Tickets Redemption
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Cancellation & Refunds
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions
Buy your The Motive and the Cue tickets online for a hassle-free and convenient experience that ensures the best deals and discounts.
The cost of the The Motive and the Cue tickets will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
The best way to buy cheap or discounted The Motive and the Cue tickets is to book them online as you will often come across attractive discounts. Book your The Motive and the Cue tickets in advance as they tend to get more expensive closer to the show date.
You can easily buy last-minute The Motive and the Cue tickets online.
Booking The Motive and the Cue tickets online will give you the opportunity to select your specific seats, thus, ensuring you do not get stuck with partial view seating. But if you try your luck with lottery tickets, or purchase day seats, your seats will be allocated at the discretion of the Box Office, which can potentially mean partial view seating or split seats.
The Motive and the Cue opens on 9 December 2023 at Noel Coward Theatre.
The Motive and the Cue is suitable for ages 12+. Children under 5 will not be admitted.
The Motive and the Cue is playing at Noel Coward Theatre in London and opens on 9 December 2023.
The running time of The Motive and the Cue is 2 hours and 40 minutes including the intermission.
The Motive and the Cue is a captivating play that explores the behind-the-scenes world of theatre, focusing on the tumultuous collaboration between actor Richard Burton and director John Gielgud during an experimental production of Hamlet.
The main stars of The Motive and the Cue are Johnny Flynn as Burton, Mark Gatiss as Gielgud and Tuppence Middleton as Taylor.
There is no specific dress code at West End. However, it is prudent to dress in semi-formals or smart casuals and something comfortable. Carry a light sweater or a jacket as the theatre can get a bit chilly.
No, outside food is not allowed while attending The Motive and the Cue. Most theatres do have a cafeteria or bar inside the premises where you can get snacks and drinks.
Noel Coward Theatre has multiple facilities including a bar, cloakroom, and toilets available for the audiences during The Motive and the Cue.
Photography, videography, and sound recording are prohibited inside the theatre. Some theatres do have a souvenir shop from where you can purchase pictures of stills of the show.
