English
English
2 hr 55 min with interval
Language
Currency
DURATION
CLOSING DATE
Until January 17, 2026
AGE LIMIT
Suitable for all ages
from
£31.25
AboutVenueTickets
Why watch Twelfth Night?
- Join along for a gender‑bending, bittersweet twist on Shakespeare’s rom‑com set to new indie‑pop music by Matt Maltese—ideal for lovers of smart, modern classical theatre.
- The Royal Shakespeare Company reprises Olivier‑nominated Samuel West and Freema Agyeman (Doctor Who) as Malvolio and Olivia in this “inspired and spellbinding,” (The Stage) show blending original songs by Matt Maltese with clever storytelling that promis both laughter and heart.
- The RSC’s 5‑star Stratford success brings evocative Edwardian‑inspired design by James Cotterill and clever staging, including an on‑stage organ that doubles as hiding and fire‑pole fun.
- This London season runs just six weeks at the Barbican Theatre—ticket demand is strong, so pick your date and book early to enjoy this winter standout.
Prasanna Puwanarajah’s revival of Twelfth Night marks the Royal Shakespeare Company’s celebrated festive transfer to the Barbican Theatre following a sold‑out Stratford run. This production blends Shakespeare’s comedic heart with fresh songs by Matt Maltese, exploring love, grief, and identity under Edwardian‑inspired aesthetics. The cast features Samuel West delivering a nuanced Malvolio—from slapstick yellow‑stocking hijinks to an emotionally layered final moment—alongside Freema Agyeman’s restrained Olivia and Michael Grady‑Hall’s revelatory Feste. The Guardian commends the production’s balance of comedy and melancholy, with director Puwanarajah maintaining thematic depth throughout. Don’t miss out on the Twelfth Night (Royal Shakespeare Company) so book your tickets today!
Storyline
Shipwrecked on the shores of Illyria, Viola adopts a male disguise to survive and enters the service of Duke Orsino, tasked with courting Lady Olivia. But Olivia falls for Viola's disguise, while Viola harbors feelings for Orsino, sparking a delicious tangle of identity and affection. Amid subplots and comedic confusion, every character hides more than they reveal. Will chaotic love reign triumphant? Book your Twelfth Night London tickets to find out!
Show timings
Show timings for Twelfth Night may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & crew
- Leading roles: Samuel West as Malvolio, Freema Agyeman as Olivia, and Michael Grady‑Hall as Feste
- Book: William Shakespeare
- Direction: Prasanna Puwanarajah
- Set & costume designer: James Cotterill
- Lighting designers: Zoe Spurr & Bethany Gupwell
- Composer & original music: Matt Maltese
- Sound designer: George Dennis
- Movement director: Polly Bennett
- Casting director: Matthew Dewsbury CDG
- Music director: Lindsey Miller
- Arranger & additional music: Zac Gvi
- Associate director: Zoë Templeman‑Young
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 all ages and above.
- Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Barbican Theatre Read more
The Barbican Theatre, part of the Grade II–listed Barbican Centre, opened in 1982 and seats around 1,156 across four levels, including stalls, circle, upper circle, and gallery. Designed by Chamberlin, Powell & Bon for the Royal Shakespeare Company, no seat sits further than 20 m from the stage, creating an intimate and immersive experience. The theatre’s brutalist architecture is a landmark in London, and it has hosted notable productions like Jesus Christ Superstar and Benedict Cumberbatch’s Hamlet.
The Barbican Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting there
- Address: Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS
- Tube: 4‑minute walk from Barbican (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan), 3 min from Moorgate, 4 min from St Paul’s.
- Bus: Routes 4, 56, and 153 stop at Silk Street or Aldersgate—153 runs from Finsbury Park to Liverpool Street every 12–20 minutes
Facilities & accessibility
Available facilities: restrooms, bar, restaurant, cloakroom, cycle racks, parking spaces
Accessibility: wheelchair-accessible entrance and lifts, accessible seating, companion seats, accessible restrooms, access performance, captions available
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.
More reads
Frequently asked questions about Twelfth Night
How much do Twelfth Night London play tickets cost?
Ticket prices start from £31.25 and vary based on seat selection, date, and available discounts such as youth or group rates.
What age is Twelfth Night suitable for?
While there’s no official age limit, the show is most suitable for all ages.
Where is Twelfth Night playing in London?
Twelfth Night is playing at the Barbican Theatre, located within the Barbican Centre in central London.
What is the Twelfth Night play about?
Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night follows shipwrecked Viola, who disguises herself as a man, leading to a tangled web of mistaken identity and unexpected love in the land of Illyria.
How long does Twelfth Night run for?
The running time is approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes, including one 20-minute interval.
Who stars in this production of Twelfth Night?
The cast includes Freema Agyeman as Olivia, Samuel West as Malvolio, and Michael Grady-Hall as Feste, all reprising roles from the RSC’s acclaimed Stratford run.
Who directs this production of Twelfth Night?
This revival is directed by Prasanna Puwanarajah and produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company, featuring original music by Matt Maltese.
Is this a modern adaptation of Twelfth Night?
Yes, while keeping Shakespeare’s text intact, this version uses contemporary design, movement, and live music to create a fresh, engaging interpretation.
Are there any musical elements in Twelfth Night?
Yes, the production includes original songs composed by Matt Maltese, enhancing the emotional and comedic elements of the play.
Will I be able to understand the Shakespearean language?
Absolutely. The performance style, staging, and musical elements make the story easy to follow even if you’re new to Shakespeare.
Are there any accessible performances for Twelfth Night?
Yes, the Barbican offers captioned, audio-described, BSL-interpreted, and relaxed performances for this production.
Can I watch Twelfth Night if I’ve never seen a Shakespeare play before?
Definitely. This production is designed to be accessible for both seasoned fans and newcomers to Shakespeare’s work.
Is Twelfth Night a comedy or a drama?
th Night is a romantic comedy, rich with mistaken identities, witty banter, and moments of emotional depth.