Duration
2 hrs 20 mins with interval
Closing Date
Until October 26, 2024
Age limit
Suitable for 14+
Why Watch The Real Thing?
- Tom Stoppard's iconic The Real Thing, regarded as his best play, returns to the West End for a strictly limited run.
- Max Webster, the genius behind the Tony and Olivier Award-winning Life of Pi, helms this revival with stars James McArdle and Bel Powley in the lead roles.
- The Guardian's theater critic Michael Billington called it one of the greatest plays ever written, praising its "intelligence, wit and emotional depth."
- Don't miss your chance to see McArdle, fresh off his Olivier-nominated performance, and Powley ignite the stage with their performance. Get your tickets today!
Decades after its debut, The Real Thing continues to be hailed as a theatrical masterpiece. Having won Best Play at the Tonys, Drama Desk Awards, and Evening Standard Awards in the past, this production will be led by James McArdle, known for Angels in America, and Bel Powley, winner of the prestigious Cannes Film Festival Trophée Chopard award. Director Max Webster, whose credits include Macbeth and Minority Report, is known for reimagining stories for the modern age, from Shakespeare to Seuss, so you can expect him to infuse Stoppard's timeless themes with a contemporary edge.
Storyline
Prepare to be swept away by a whirlwind of love, betrayal, and the blurred lines between reality and illusion. The Real Thing follows a passionate romance between a playwright and an actress, their undeniable spark blossoming into a secret affair. But a shocking truth threatens to tear their world apart. As their love story unfolds, the boundaries between the characters they portray on stage and their own desires begin to crumble. Will their love survive the complexities of truth and deception, or will the search for "the real thing" leave them forever lost in a web of their own making?
Cast & Crew
Leading Roles: James McArdle as Henry, Bel Powley as Annie
Director: Max Webster
Writer: Tom Stoppard
Old Vic Theatre
The Old Vic Theatre is one of London’s most historic and culturally significant performing arts venues. Founded in 1818 in Waterloo, it has played a central role in British theatre for over two centuries, nurturing generations of actors, directors, and playwrights. The theatre’s elegant Edwardian interior features a traditional horseshoe-shaped auditorium adorned with rich red and gold detailing, creating an intimate yet grand atmosphere. Architecturally, the building combines historic charm with carefully preserved period features that reflect its long theatrical heritage. The Old Vic has been associated with legendary figures such as Laurence Olivier and has staged numerous acclaimed productions, including Shakespearean classics, contemporary dramas, and award-winning revivals. Today, it remains a vital cultural landmark, celebrated for its artistic innovation and enduring contribution to London’s theatrical landscape.
Getting There
- Address: 103 The Cut, London SE1 8NB, UK
- By metro:
The closest Tube station is Waterloo located just three minutes walk from the theatre. This station is serviced by the Northern, Waterloo, Jubilee, Bakerloo and City tube lines.
- By train:
Waterloo Station is about 3 minutes’ walk away. It is served by the Northern, Jubilee, Bakerloo and Waterloo & City lines, plus national rail services. Southwark (Jubilee), Lambeth North (Bakerloo) are also within walking distance.
- By bus:
If you wish to take a bus to the theatre, the following routes ply to the area: 1, 168, 171, 176, 188, 68, N1, N 171, and N68.
Facilities & Accessibility
Amenities: Toilets, Cloak room, Dining outlets, Souvenir shop
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, Elevator access, Service animals 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.
Tickets Redemption
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Cancellation & Refunds
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
