English
English
4.7
Martyn FreerUnited Kingdom
We had seen a short clip of this play on FB and had high expectations that it would be a fun play to see. Our expectations were blown away with the constant laughing at the brilliant actors and sheer chaotic performances of all those involved. Cannot recommend this play more highly. If you want a laugh, go see it! Just make sure you pee first!
The Play That Goes Wrong
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DURATION
2 hr 5 min with interval
AGE LIMIT
Suitable for 8+ yrs
from
£25
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AboutVenueTicketsReviews
Why watch The Play That Goes Wrong?
- An Olivier and Tony Award-winning production, The Play That Goes Wrong in London is one of the West End’s longest-running comedies.
- From Mischief Theatre, the masters of ingeniously disastrous comedy, comes a laugh-out-loud twist on the classic whodunnit, packed with slapstick, perfect timing, and theatrical mayhem.
- Enjoy a show-within-a-show as the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society takes on a doomed production of The Murder at Haversham Manor. Expect everything from falling props to actors forgetting their lines.
- A West End hit for all ages, the play is “comic gold” (The Guardian) and “gut-busting” (The New York Times). Don’t miss out on the farce and witty chaos, book your tickets to The Play That Goes Wrong now!
Premiering in 2012 at the Old Red Lion Theatre, The Play That Goes Wrong at the Duchess Theatre quickly became a sensation, transferring to the West End where it’s been making audiences laugh ever since. Created by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields of Mischief Theatre, the show follows the inept Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society as they attempt to stage a 1920s murder mystery, but from the moment the curtain rises, everything falls apart. With perfect comic timing, physical gags, collapsing sets, and mishaps (including a character stuck in a grandfather clock), The Play That Goes Wrong on the West End has become a global hit. It has been translated and licensed in over 30 countries. Critically acclaimed, the show has won multiple awards, including an Olivier Award, a Tony Award, and a WhatsonStage Award for Best New Comedy.
Storyline
The Play That Goes Wrong in London follows the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society’s attempt to stage The Murder at Haversham Manor. This murder mystery quickly spirals into a chaotic disaster. As the actors stumble through their roles and the set falls apart, the play within a play becomes a riotous spectacle of malfunctioning props, forgotten lines, and a desperate effort to finish the performance. Book The Play That Goes Wrong tickets and enjoy this hilarious and unpredictable journey where everything that could go wrong, does, turning the whodunnit into a slapstick masterpiece.
Show timings
Show timings for The Play That Goes Wrong may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & crew
- Leading roles: Jordan Akkaya as Trevor, Daniel Anthony as Dennis, Joe Bolland as Jonathan, Daniel Fraser as Chris and Billie Hamer as Annie
- Direction: Mark Bell
- Music: Rob Falconer
- Written by: Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer & Henry Shields
Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
Age & content guide
- Children aged under 5 years will not be admitted to this show. This show is recommended for ages 8 years and above.
- Please keep in mind that the theatre does not have an age classification organization. This means that all age recommendations are subjective. Please use your judgment while purchasing tickets for any show.
Duchess Theatre Read more
The Duchess Theatre is one of the most intimate proscenium-arch theatres in London’s West End. Designed by architect Ewen Barr, the theatre was ingeniously crafted to overcome the challenges of an unusually shaped site. The theatre opened its doors in November 1929 with a production of Tunnel Trench by Hubert Griffith. In its early years, the Duchess Theatre hosted a series of short but notable runs featuring works by prominent playwrights, helping to establish its presence in the West End scene.
The Duchess Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting there
Address: Duchess Theatre, 3-5 Catherine Street, London
Tube: The nearest tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line), Holborn (Central/ Piccadilly Lines) Charing Cross (Northern/Bakerloo Lines) and Temple (Circle and District Lines).
Bus: 1, 4, 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 26, 59, 68 76, 87, 91, 139, 168, 171, 172, 176, 188 from Lancaster Place (Stop T) and Aldwych Somerset House (Stop R).
Facilities & accessibility
Available facilities: Theatre bar, Cloakroom, Booster seats, Toilet
Accessibility: Assistive listening system
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
4.7
2,839 ratings
2.3K
382
64
40
74
Martyn
Jun 2026Verified booking
We had seen a short clip of this play on FB and had high expectations that it would be a fun play to see. Our expectations were blown away with the constant laughing at the brilliant actors and sheer chaotic performances of all those involved. Cannot recommend this play more highly. If you want a laugh, go see it! Just make sure you pee first!
Danny
Jun 2026Verified booking
Lovely theater. First time in West end and thoroughly enjoyed. The sheer art direction, and the ability to keep it all cohesive was outstanding. Particularly found the part where one of the characters broke the fourth wall to chastise the audience hilarious.
Nikolaos
Jun 2026Verified booking
The show was absolutely incredible. There were moments that I was crying from laughter. I had heard many praises from others and reviews about the show and I am glad that I got to experience it myself. 10/10 and I will definitely visit again
Štěpánka
Jun 2026Verified booking
I had an amazing time from beginning to end – the actors had fantastic energy that completely captivated the audience. The choreography and individual scenes were at times almost unbelievable and created a truly unforgettable experience.
Kirsty
Jun 2026Verified booking
Fantastic audience interaction, hilarious content, lines and actions executed with perfect precision. Loved laughing and couldn't wait for the interval to finish so that the laughter could continue. Thanks for such a great night!
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Frequently asked questions about The Play That Goes Wrong
How much do The Play That Goes Wrong tickets cost?
The cost of the tickets start from £25, and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
What age is The Play That Goes Wrong on the West End appropriate for?
The play does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 8 years and above
Where is The Play That Goes Wrong playing in London?
The show is playing at the Duchess Theatre in London.
How long does The Play That Goes Wrong run for?
The running time of the show is 2 hours 5 minutes, with 1 intermission.
What is The Play That Goes Wrong about?
It's a comedy about the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society attempting to stage a 1920s murder mystery, where everything that can go wrong does, leading to hilarious consequences.
What is the main theme of the play?
The show explores the chaotic intersection between reality and illusion in live theatre. As the fictional drama society attempts to stage a murder mystery, the line between performance and real-life blunders becomes hilariously blurred. The play is a celebration of the freedom of expression, showing how actors persist through failure with resilience and creativity.
Are there any special effects used in the show?
Yes, the production includes pyrotechnics, gunshots, loud sound effects, smoke, and haze.
Has The Play That Goes Wrong won any awards?
Yes, it won the 2015 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy.
Are there any other shows by Mischief Theatre in London?
Yes, Mischief Theatre has produced other shows like Peter Pan Goes Wrong and The Comedy About a Bank Robbery.