Why experience Grace Pervades

Set amidst the evocative world of Victorian theatre, Grace Pervades delves into the artistic and personal journey of Henry Irving and Ellen Terry, two of the most celebrated figures in British stage history. Premiering at Theatre Royal Haymarket, this new play by noted playwright David Hare unveils the artistry, ambition and complexity behind their legendary partnership.

Directed by Jeremy Herrin, the drama features Academy Award nominee Ralph Fiennes and esteemed stage actress Miranda Raison, bringing to life a cast of characters whose lives are as rich offstage as they were under the spotlight. As Irving and Terry break boundaries in actor-manager tradition, the play explores the nature of creative collaboration and the pressures of fame in a society on the brink of change.

Step into the world of legends

The Lyceum company’s rise to renown under Irving’s direction is meticulously recreated through the impactful work of designers Bob Crowley, Fotini Dimou, Peter Mumford and Elizabeth Purnell. The set, lighting and sound designs transport you to a time where every performance shaped the future of theatre. Their world is one of artistry and innovation, yet also one of vulnerability and personal risk.

• See Victorian London come alive on stage through authentic costumes and mesmerising sets.

• Discover how theatre history was rewritten by those who dared to innovate.

• Learn about the wider societal changes that influenced their careers and legacies.

The characters grapple with ambition, devotion and the sacrifices needed to redefine what theatre can be. At the heart of the story is the interplay between individual success and collective vision, inviting audiences to consider the lasting impact of these pioneers on modern performance.

A dynamic staging at Theatre Royal Haymarket

Grace Pervades is brought to life in one of London’s most storied venues, the Theatre Royal Haymarket. The production’s smart use of space, movement and original music composed by Paul Englishby creates an atmosphere where past and present intersect.

• The play runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including a short interval for refreshments and relaxation.

• Enjoy a comfortable, accessible theatre with facilities including restrooms, cloakroom and a bar area.

• An inclusive approach means performances feature accessible seating and assistive listening equipment.

The story of Grace Pervades

The narrative follows Henry Irving—Britain’s first knighted actor—and Ellen Terry—renowned for her Shakespearean roles—charting their intertwined professional and personal lives. Their teamwork sets new industry standards for actor-managers and Shakespearean interpretation. Yet as the Lyceum company becomes a national sensation, the line between their theatrical and real identities grows blurred.

The play brings to light the cost of innovation on relationships and selfhood, all while celebrating the transformative power of collaboration. As the curtain falls, the legacy of Irving and Terry endures, both onstage and in the history of British arts.

Book your Grace Pervades tickets now!