An Ideal Husband is Oscar Wilde’s enduring comedy of manners, political intrigue, and moral dilemma, directed here by Nicholai La Barrie with Gráinne Flynn as assistant director. This smart new London staging revisits Wilde’s dialogue, irony, and social critique, set against a backdrop of polished interiors, stylish costumes, and staging that highlights the tension between appearance and truth. The Lyric’s 2026 season marks the centenary of the play’s last appearance at this venue in 1926, making this a commemorative revival as much as a contemporary restaging
Set over twenty-four hours in London’s elite political and social circles, An Ideal Husband introduces Sir Robert Chiltern, a man of distinction whose spotless reputation is threatened when Mrs. Cheveley appears bearing evidence of a past misdeed. As scandal looms, alliances shift, loyalties are tested, and the line between virtue and convenience blurs. With sharp dialogue and moral suspense, the play asks: what lengths will someone go to protect their name, and themselves? Book An Ideal Husband London tickets to discover how these tensions resolve.
Show timings for An Ideal Husband may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
The Lyric Hammersmith is one of London’s most innovative producing theaters, combining a restored 1895 auditorium with modern facilities after its 1979 rebuild. Known for bold programming, the Lyric has staged acclaimed works such as Blasted, Bugsy Malone, and Ghost Stories, cementing its reputation as a hub for both classic revivals and groundbreaking new theater.
The Lyric Hammersmith seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Available facilities: restrooms, cloakroom, Bar, café
Accessibility: access performances, accessible restrooms, companion seating, Wheelchair accessible entrance
The play does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 12 years and above.
The show is playing at the Lyric Hammersmith in London.
It’s a witty social comedy set in Victorian London where a respected politician’s reputation is threatened by blackmail and secrets.
The running time is 2 hours and 45 minutes with an intermission.
Yes. Access performances include a BSL interpreted show on May 26, 2026, at 7:30pm, a chilled performance on May 27, 2026, at 2:30pm, an open captioned performance on June 2, 2026, at 7:30pm, and an audio described show on June 4, 2026, at 7:30pm, which also includes a Touch Tour at 6pm.