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Shadowlands
Experience Shadowlands live at Aldwych Theatre London. Book tickets for this powerful London play and enjoy a gripping night out.
2 hours 20 minutes (including interval)
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Recommended 12+
Shadowlands
Experience Shadowlands live at Aldwych Theatre London. Book tickets for this powerful London play and enjoy a gripping night out.
2 hours 20 minutes (including interval)
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Recommended 12+
Shadowlands
Experience Shadowlands live at Aldwych Theatre London. Book tickets for this powerful London play and enjoy a gripping night out.
2 hours 20 minutes (including interval)
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Recommended 12+
Highlights
Witness the moving story of C.S. Lewis and his profound journey through love and loss
See an acclaimed performance by Hugh Bonneville in the leading role
Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, featuring a skilled creative team
Performed at the renowned Aldwych Theatre in London's heart
What’s Included
Entry ticket to Shadowlands at Aldwych Theatre
Access to theatre amenities including restrooms, bar and cloakroom
Wheelchair accessible seating available on request
About Shadowlands Tickets at the Aldwych Theatre
Hugh Bonneville stars as C.S. Lewis in Shadowlands, William Nicholson's acclaimed play about The Chronicles of Narnia author's unexpected late-life romance with American poet Joy Davidman. This strictly limited West End run plays the Aldwych Theatre from 5 February to 9 May 2026, transferring from a sell-out production at Chichester Festival Theatre.
Shadowlands Plot and Story
C.S. Lewis was 58 when he married Joy Davidman in 1956. A confirmed bachelor and Oxford don, Lewis had spent decades writing about faith, pain and the human condition. When the outspoken American poet arrived in his ordered academic world, she challenged everything he thought he knew. Their friendship deepened into love, only for Joy to be diagnosed with terminal cancer. Shadowlands follows Lewis as he confronts the reality of loss after writing about it for years. Based on true events, this moving drama explores love, grief and the fragile beauty of life.
Shadowlands London Cast 2026
Hugh Bonneville reprises his widely praised portrayal of C.S. Lewis, a role he first played at Chichester in 2019. Known globally for Downton Abbey, Paddington and Twenty Twelve, Bonneville has received BAFTA, Emmy and Golden Globe nominations throughout his career.
Maggie Siff plays Joy Davidman. American audiences know her from Mad Men, Sons of Anarchy and Billions. She brings sharp wit and emotional depth to the role of the poet who transforms Lewis's life.
The Shadowlands cast includes Jeff Rawle (Drop the Dead Donkey, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) as Major W.H. Lewis, Tony Jayawardena (Nye, Bend It Like Beckham The Musical) as Rev. Harry Harrington, and Timothy Watson (The Archers) as Professor Christopher Riley.
Shadowlands Creative Team
Rachel Kavanaugh directs. The creative team includes design by Peter McKintosh, lighting design by Howard Harrison, sound design by Fergus O'Hare and music by Catherine Jayes. Casting by Annelie Powell CDG and Jim Carnahan.
Shadowlands Play History and Awards
Shadowlands began as a BAFTA Award-winning television film in 1985. William Nicholson adapted it for the stage in 1989, winning the Evening Standard Award for Best Play. The Broadway transfer received Tony Award nominations. In 1993, Richard Attenborough directed the feature film starring Anthony Hopkins and Debra Winger, which won the BAFTA Award for Outstanding British Film.
Shadowlands Tickets and Running Time
Shadowlands runs 2 hours 20 minutes including one interval. Evening performances Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm. Book Shadowlands tickets at the Aldwych Theatre for this limited 11-week West End engagement.
Please switch off mobile phones during the performance
Dress smart casual for a comfortable theatre visit
Arrive early to locate your seats and amenities
Children under 12 are not recommended to attend the show
Respect fellow guests and the cast by maintaining silence during the show
How long is Shadowlands at the Aldwych Theatre?
Shadowlands runs 2 hours 20 minutes including one interval of approximately 20 minutes.
What age is Shadowlands suitable for?
Shadowlands is recommended for ages 12 and above due to emotional themes including grief and terminal illness. Children under 5 are not admitted to the Aldwych Theatre. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Who is in the Shadowlands cast?
Hugh Bonneville plays C.S. Lewis and Maggie Siff plays Joy Davidman. The cast also includes Jeff Rawle as Major W.H. Lewis, Tony Jayawardena as Rev. Harry Harrington and Timothy Watson as Professor Christopher Riley.
When is Shadowlands playing in London?
Shadowlands runs at the Aldwych Theatre from 5 February to 9 May 2026. Evening performances are Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinees are Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm.
Is Shadowlands based on a true story?
Yes. Shadowlands tells the true story of C.S. Lewis and Joy Davidman. They married in 1956 when Lewis was 58. Joy died of cancer in 1960. Lewis wrote about his grief in the book A Grief Observed.
Who wrote Shadowlands?
William Nicholson wrote the original television film (1985), the stage play (1989) and the screenplay for the 1993 film starring Anthony Hopkins. He also wrote the screenplay for Gladiator.
Who directs Shadowlands at the Aldwych Theatre?
Rachel Kavanaugh directs this production of Shadowlands. She previously directed the 2019 Chichester Festival Theatre production with Hugh Bonneville.
Can I book last minute Shadowlands tickets?
Yes. tickadoo offers last minute Shadowlands tickets for same-day and next-day performances, subject to availability. Check the booking calendar for real-time seat availability and book online for instant confirmation.
Can I choose my own seats for Shadowlands?
Yes. When booking Shadowlands tickets through tickadoo, you can view the Aldwych Theatre seating plan and select your exact seats. Choose from stalls, dress circle, upper circle or balcony depending on availability and budget.
What are the best seats for Shadowlands at the Aldwych Theatre?
Stalls rows D to K offer close views with good sightlines. Dress circle front rows provide an elevated perspective of the full stage. Upper circle offers excellent value with clear views. Avoid extreme side seats if you want to see all stage action.
Are there audio described performances of Shadowlands?
Yes. An audio described performance of Shadowlands is scheduled for Saturday 28 March 2026 at 2:30pm.
Does Shadowlands have content warnings?
Shadowlands explores themes of grief, terminal illness and bereavement. The play is emotionally moving rather than distressing, but viewer discretion is advised for those sensitive to these subjects.
Where is Shadowlands playing in London?
Shadowlands is playing at the Aldwych Theatre, 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF. The nearest tube stations are Covent Garden, Temple and Holborn.
How do I get Shadowlands tickets?
Book Shadowlands tickets online through tickadoo. Select your preferred date and performance time, choose your own seats from the interactive seating plan, and receive e-tickets by email with instant confirmation.
Shadowlands Performance Schedule
Evening performances Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm. No Sunday performances. The production runs from 5 February to 9 May 2026.
Shadowlands Running Time
2 hours 20 minutes including one interval of approximately 20 minutes.
Arrival Time at the Aldwych Theatre
Arrive at least 30 minutes before curtain up. This allows time for security checks, finding your seats and visiting the bar or cloakroom. Latecomers are admitted only at a suitable break in the performance.
Shadowlands Tickets and Entry
E-tickets are delivered by email with instant confirmation. You may be asked to show a government-issued photo ID that matches the booking name when entering the theatre. Have your e-tickets ready on your phone or printed.
Aldwych Theatre Location and Transport
The Aldwych Theatre is located at 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF. Nearest tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly line, 5-minute walk), Temple (Circle and District lines, 7-minute walk) and Holborn (Central and Piccadilly lines, 8-minute walk). Charing Cross mainline station is a 10-minute walk.
Shadowlands Age Recommendation
Recommended for ages 12 and above. Under 5s are not admitted to the Aldwych Theatre. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult (minimum one adult per 10 children). All audience members require a valid ticket regardless of age.
Interval at Shadowlands
There is one interval of approximately 20 minutes. Refreshments are available at the Aldwych Theatre bar. You can pre-order interval drinks before the performance to avoid queues.
Cannot be canceled or rescheduled
The Aldwych Theatre, 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF, United Kingdom
Highlights
Witness the moving story of C.S. Lewis and his profound journey through love and loss
See an acclaimed performance by Hugh Bonneville in the leading role
Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, featuring a skilled creative team
Performed at the renowned Aldwych Theatre in London's heart
What’s Included
Entry ticket to Shadowlands at Aldwych Theatre
Access to theatre amenities including restrooms, bar and cloakroom
Wheelchair accessible seating available on request
About Shadowlands Tickets at the Aldwych Theatre
Hugh Bonneville stars as C.S. Lewis in Shadowlands, William Nicholson's acclaimed play about The Chronicles of Narnia author's unexpected late-life romance with American poet Joy Davidman. This strictly limited West End run plays the Aldwych Theatre from 5 February to 9 May 2026, transferring from a sell-out production at Chichester Festival Theatre.
Shadowlands Plot and Story
C.S. Lewis was 58 when he married Joy Davidman in 1956. A confirmed bachelor and Oxford don, Lewis had spent decades writing about faith, pain and the human condition. When the outspoken American poet arrived in his ordered academic world, she challenged everything he thought he knew. Their friendship deepened into love, only for Joy to be diagnosed with terminal cancer. Shadowlands follows Lewis as he confronts the reality of loss after writing about it for years. Based on true events, this moving drama explores love, grief and the fragile beauty of life.
Shadowlands London Cast 2026
Hugh Bonneville reprises his widely praised portrayal of C.S. Lewis, a role he first played at Chichester in 2019. Known globally for Downton Abbey, Paddington and Twenty Twelve, Bonneville has received BAFTA, Emmy and Golden Globe nominations throughout his career.
Maggie Siff plays Joy Davidman. American audiences know her from Mad Men, Sons of Anarchy and Billions. She brings sharp wit and emotional depth to the role of the poet who transforms Lewis's life.
The Shadowlands cast includes Jeff Rawle (Drop the Dead Donkey, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) as Major W.H. Lewis, Tony Jayawardena (Nye, Bend It Like Beckham The Musical) as Rev. Harry Harrington, and Timothy Watson (The Archers) as Professor Christopher Riley.
Shadowlands Creative Team
Rachel Kavanaugh directs. The creative team includes design by Peter McKintosh, lighting design by Howard Harrison, sound design by Fergus O'Hare and music by Catherine Jayes. Casting by Annelie Powell CDG and Jim Carnahan.
Shadowlands Play History and Awards
Shadowlands began as a BAFTA Award-winning television film in 1985. William Nicholson adapted it for the stage in 1989, winning the Evening Standard Award for Best Play. The Broadway transfer received Tony Award nominations. In 1993, Richard Attenborough directed the feature film starring Anthony Hopkins and Debra Winger, which won the BAFTA Award for Outstanding British Film.
Shadowlands Tickets and Running Time
Shadowlands runs 2 hours 20 minutes including one interval. Evening performances Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm. Book Shadowlands tickets at the Aldwych Theatre for this limited 11-week West End engagement.
Please switch off mobile phones during the performance
Dress smart casual for a comfortable theatre visit
Arrive early to locate your seats and amenities
Children under 12 are not recommended to attend the show
Respect fellow guests and the cast by maintaining silence during the show
How long is Shadowlands at the Aldwych Theatre?
Shadowlands runs 2 hours 20 minutes including one interval of approximately 20 minutes.
What age is Shadowlands suitable for?
Shadowlands is recommended for ages 12 and above due to emotional themes including grief and terminal illness. Children under 5 are not admitted to the Aldwych Theatre. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Who is in the Shadowlands cast?
Hugh Bonneville plays C.S. Lewis and Maggie Siff plays Joy Davidman. The cast also includes Jeff Rawle as Major W.H. Lewis, Tony Jayawardena as Rev. Harry Harrington and Timothy Watson as Professor Christopher Riley.
When is Shadowlands playing in London?
Shadowlands runs at the Aldwych Theatre from 5 February to 9 May 2026. Evening performances are Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinees are Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm.
Is Shadowlands based on a true story?
Yes. Shadowlands tells the true story of C.S. Lewis and Joy Davidman. They married in 1956 when Lewis was 58. Joy died of cancer in 1960. Lewis wrote about his grief in the book A Grief Observed.
Who wrote Shadowlands?
William Nicholson wrote the original television film (1985), the stage play (1989) and the screenplay for the 1993 film starring Anthony Hopkins. He also wrote the screenplay for Gladiator.
Who directs Shadowlands at the Aldwych Theatre?
Rachel Kavanaugh directs this production of Shadowlands. She previously directed the 2019 Chichester Festival Theatre production with Hugh Bonneville.
Can I book last minute Shadowlands tickets?
Yes. tickadoo offers last minute Shadowlands tickets for same-day and next-day performances, subject to availability. Check the booking calendar for real-time seat availability and book online for instant confirmation.
Can I choose my own seats for Shadowlands?
Yes. When booking Shadowlands tickets through tickadoo, you can view the Aldwych Theatre seating plan and select your exact seats. Choose from stalls, dress circle, upper circle or balcony depending on availability and budget.
What are the best seats for Shadowlands at the Aldwych Theatre?
Stalls rows D to K offer close views with good sightlines. Dress circle front rows provide an elevated perspective of the full stage. Upper circle offers excellent value with clear views. Avoid extreme side seats if you want to see all stage action.
Are there audio described performances of Shadowlands?
Yes. An audio described performance of Shadowlands is scheduled for Saturday 28 March 2026 at 2:30pm.
Does Shadowlands have content warnings?
Shadowlands explores themes of grief, terminal illness and bereavement. The play is emotionally moving rather than distressing, but viewer discretion is advised for those sensitive to these subjects.
Where is Shadowlands playing in London?
Shadowlands is playing at the Aldwych Theatre, 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF. The nearest tube stations are Covent Garden, Temple and Holborn.
How do I get Shadowlands tickets?
Book Shadowlands tickets online through tickadoo. Select your preferred date and performance time, choose your own seats from the interactive seating plan, and receive e-tickets by email with instant confirmation.
Shadowlands Performance Schedule
Evening performances Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm. No Sunday performances. The production runs from 5 February to 9 May 2026.
Shadowlands Running Time
2 hours 20 minutes including one interval of approximately 20 minutes.
Arrival Time at the Aldwych Theatre
Arrive at least 30 minutes before curtain up. This allows time for security checks, finding your seats and visiting the bar or cloakroom. Latecomers are admitted only at a suitable break in the performance.
Shadowlands Tickets and Entry
E-tickets are delivered by email with instant confirmation. You may be asked to show a government-issued photo ID that matches the booking name when entering the theatre. Have your e-tickets ready on your phone or printed.
Aldwych Theatre Location and Transport
The Aldwych Theatre is located at 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF. Nearest tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly line, 5-minute walk), Temple (Circle and District lines, 7-minute walk) and Holborn (Central and Piccadilly lines, 8-minute walk). Charing Cross mainline station is a 10-minute walk.
Shadowlands Age Recommendation
Recommended for ages 12 and above. Under 5s are not admitted to the Aldwych Theatre. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult (minimum one adult per 10 children). All audience members require a valid ticket regardless of age.
Interval at Shadowlands
There is one interval of approximately 20 minutes. Refreshments are available at the Aldwych Theatre bar. You can pre-order interval drinks before the performance to avoid queues.
Cannot be canceled or rescheduled
The Aldwych Theatre, 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF, United Kingdom
Highlights
Witness the moving story of C.S. Lewis and his profound journey through love and loss
See an acclaimed performance by Hugh Bonneville in the leading role
Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, featuring a skilled creative team
Performed at the renowned Aldwych Theatre in London's heart
What’s Included
Entry ticket to Shadowlands at Aldwych Theatre
Access to theatre amenities including restrooms, bar and cloakroom
Wheelchair accessible seating available on request
About Shadowlands Tickets at the Aldwych Theatre
Hugh Bonneville stars as C.S. Lewis in Shadowlands, William Nicholson's acclaimed play about The Chronicles of Narnia author's unexpected late-life romance with American poet Joy Davidman. This strictly limited West End run plays the Aldwych Theatre from 5 February to 9 May 2026, transferring from a sell-out production at Chichester Festival Theatre.
Shadowlands Plot and Story
C.S. Lewis was 58 when he married Joy Davidman in 1956. A confirmed bachelor and Oxford don, Lewis had spent decades writing about faith, pain and the human condition. When the outspoken American poet arrived in his ordered academic world, she challenged everything he thought he knew. Their friendship deepened into love, only for Joy to be diagnosed with terminal cancer. Shadowlands follows Lewis as he confronts the reality of loss after writing about it for years. Based on true events, this moving drama explores love, grief and the fragile beauty of life.
Shadowlands London Cast 2026
Hugh Bonneville reprises his widely praised portrayal of C.S. Lewis, a role he first played at Chichester in 2019. Known globally for Downton Abbey, Paddington and Twenty Twelve, Bonneville has received BAFTA, Emmy and Golden Globe nominations throughout his career.
Maggie Siff plays Joy Davidman. American audiences know her from Mad Men, Sons of Anarchy and Billions. She brings sharp wit and emotional depth to the role of the poet who transforms Lewis's life.
The Shadowlands cast includes Jeff Rawle (Drop the Dead Donkey, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) as Major W.H. Lewis, Tony Jayawardena (Nye, Bend It Like Beckham The Musical) as Rev. Harry Harrington, and Timothy Watson (The Archers) as Professor Christopher Riley.
Shadowlands Creative Team
Rachel Kavanaugh directs. The creative team includes design by Peter McKintosh, lighting design by Howard Harrison, sound design by Fergus O'Hare and music by Catherine Jayes. Casting by Annelie Powell CDG and Jim Carnahan.
Shadowlands Play History and Awards
Shadowlands began as a BAFTA Award-winning television film in 1985. William Nicholson adapted it for the stage in 1989, winning the Evening Standard Award for Best Play. The Broadway transfer received Tony Award nominations. In 1993, Richard Attenborough directed the feature film starring Anthony Hopkins and Debra Winger, which won the BAFTA Award for Outstanding British Film.
Shadowlands Tickets and Running Time
Shadowlands runs 2 hours 20 minutes including one interval. Evening performances Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm. Book Shadowlands tickets at the Aldwych Theatre for this limited 11-week West End engagement.
Shadowlands Performance Schedule
Evening performances Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm. No Sunday performances. The production runs from 5 February to 9 May 2026.
Shadowlands Running Time
2 hours 20 minutes including one interval of approximately 20 minutes.
Arrival Time at the Aldwych Theatre
Arrive at least 30 minutes before curtain up. This allows time for security checks, finding your seats and visiting the bar or cloakroom. Latecomers are admitted only at a suitable break in the performance.
Shadowlands Tickets and Entry
E-tickets are delivered by email with instant confirmation. You may be asked to show a government-issued photo ID that matches the booking name when entering the theatre. Have your e-tickets ready on your phone or printed.
Aldwych Theatre Location and Transport
The Aldwych Theatre is located at 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF. Nearest tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly line, 5-minute walk), Temple (Circle and District lines, 7-minute walk) and Holborn (Central and Piccadilly lines, 8-minute walk). Charing Cross mainline station is a 10-minute walk.
Shadowlands Age Recommendation
Recommended for ages 12 and above. Under 5s are not admitted to the Aldwych Theatre. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult (minimum one adult per 10 children). All audience members require a valid ticket regardless of age.
Interval at Shadowlands
There is one interval of approximately 20 minutes. Refreshments are available at the Aldwych Theatre bar. You can pre-order interval drinks before the performance to avoid queues.
Please switch off mobile phones during the performance
Dress smart casual for a comfortable theatre visit
Arrive early to locate your seats and amenities
Children under 12 are not recommended to attend the show
Respect fellow guests and the cast by maintaining silence during the show
How long is Shadowlands at the Aldwych Theatre?
Shadowlands runs 2 hours 20 minutes including one interval of approximately 20 minutes.
What age is Shadowlands suitable for?
Shadowlands is recommended for ages 12 and above due to emotional themes including grief and terminal illness. Children under 5 are not admitted to the Aldwych Theatre. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Who is in the Shadowlands cast?
Hugh Bonneville plays C.S. Lewis and Maggie Siff plays Joy Davidman. The cast also includes Jeff Rawle as Major W.H. Lewis, Tony Jayawardena as Rev. Harry Harrington and Timothy Watson as Professor Christopher Riley.
When is Shadowlands playing in London?
Shadowlands runs at the Aldwych Theatre from 5 February to 9 May 2026. Evening performances are Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinees are Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm.
Is Shadowlands based on a true story?
Yes. Shadowlands tells the true story of C.S. Lewis and Joy Davidman. They married in 1956 when Lewis was 58. Joy died of cancer in 1960. Lewis wrote about his grief in the book A Grief Observed.
Who wrote Shadowlands?
William Nicholson wrote the original television film (1985), the stage play (1989) and the screenplay for the 1993 film starring Anthony Hopkins. He also wrote the screenplay for Gladiator.
Who directs Shadowlands at the Aldwych Theatre?
Rachel Kavanaugh directs this production of Shadowlands. She previously directed the 2019 Chichester Festival Theatre production with Hugh Bonneville.
Can I book last minute Shadowlands tickets?
Yes. tickadoo offers last minute Shadowlands tickets for same-day and next-day performances, subject to availability. Check the booking calendar for real-time seat availability and book online for instant confirmation.
Can I choose my own seats for Shadowlands?
Yes. When booking Shadowlands tickets through tickadoo, you can view the Aldwych Theatre seating plan and select your exact seats. Choose from stalls, dress circle, upper circle or balcony depending on availability and budget.
What are the best seats for Shadowlands at the Aldwych Theatre?
Stalls rows D to K offer close views with good sightlines. Dress circle front rows provide an elevated perspective of the full stage. Upper circle offers excellent value with clear views. Avoid extreme side seats if you want to see all stage action.
Are there audio described performances of Shadowlands?
Yes. An audio described performance of Shadowlands is scheduled for Saturday 28 March 2026 at 2:30pm.
Does Shadowlands have content warnings?
Shadowlands explores themes of grief, terminal illness and bereavement. The play is emotionally moving rather than distressing, but viewer discretion is advised for those sensitive to these subjects.
Where is Shadowlands playing in London?
Shadowlands is playing at the Aldwych Theatre, 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF. The nearest tube stations are Covent Garden, Temple and Holborn.
How do I get Shadowlands tickets?
Book Shadowlands tickets online through tickadoo. Select your preferred date and performance time, choose your own seats from the interactive seating plan, and receive e-tickets by email with instant confirmation.
Cannot be canceled or rescheduled
The Aldwych Theatre, 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF, United Kingdom
Highlights
Witness the moving story of C.S. Lewis and his profound journey through love and loss
See an acclaimed performance by Hugh Bonneville in the leading role
Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, featuring a skilled creative team
Performed at the renowned Aldwych Theatre in London's heart
What’s Included
Entry ticket to Shadowlands at Aldwych Theatre
Access to theatre amenities including restrooms, bar and cloakroom
Wheelchair accessible seating available on request
About Shadowlands Tickets at the Aldwych Theatre
Hugh Bonneville stars as C.S. Lewis in Shadowlands, William Nicholson's acclaimed play about The Chronicles of Narnia author's unexpected late-life romance with American poet Joy Davidman. This strictly limited West End run plays the Aldwych Theatre from 5 February to 9 May 2026, transferring from a sell-out production at Chichester Festival Theatre.
Shadowlands Plot and Story
C.S. Lewis was 58 when he married Joy Davidman in 1956. A confirmed bachelor and Oxford don, Lewis had spent decades writing about faith, pain and the human condition. When the outspoken American poet arrived in his ordered academic world, she challenged everything he thought he knew. Their friendship deepened into love, only for Joy to be diagnosed with terminal cancer. Shadowlands follows Lewis as he confronts the reality of loss after writing about it for years. Based on true events, this moving drama explores love, grief and the fragile beauty of life.
Shadowlands London Cast 2026
Hugh Bonneville reprises his widely praised portrayal of C.S. Lewis, a role he first played at Chichester in 2019. Known globally for Downton Abbey, Paddington and Twenty Twelve, Bonneville has received BAFTA, Emmy and Golden Globe nominations throughout his career.
Maggie Siff plays Joy Davidman. American audiences know her from Mad Men, Sons of Anarchy and Billions. She brings sharp wit and emotional depth to the role of the poet who transforms Lewis's life.
The Shadowlands cast includes Jeff Rawle (Drop the Dead Donkey, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) as Major W.H. Lewis, Tony Jayawardena (Nye, Bend It Like Beckham The Musical) as Rev. Harry Harrington, and Timothy Watson (The Archers) as Professor Christopher Riley.
Shadowlands Creative Team
Rachel Kavanaugh directs. The creative team includes design by Peter McKintosh, lighting design by Howard Harrison, sound design by Fergus O'Hare and music by Catherine Jayes. Casting by Annelie Powell CDG and Jim Carnahan.
Shadowlands Play History and Awards
Shadowlands began as a BAFTA Award-winning television film in 1985. William Nicholson adapted it for the stage in 1989, winning the Evening Standard Award for Best Play. The Broadway transfer received Tony Award nominations. In 1993, Richard Attenborough directed the feature film starring Anthony Hopkins and Debra Winger, which won the BAFTA Award for Outstanding British Film.
Shadowlands Tickets and Running Time
Shadowlands runs 2 hours 20 minutes including one interval. Evening performances Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm. Book Shadowlands tickets at the Aldwych Theatre for this limited 11-week West End engagement.
Shadowlands Performance Schedule
Evening performances Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinees Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm. No Sunday performances. The production runs from 5 February to 9 May 2026.
Shadowlands Running Time
2 hours 20 minutes including one interval of approximately 20 minutes.
Arrival Time at the Aldwych Theatre
Arrive at least 30 minutes before curtain up. This allows time for security checks, finding your seats and visiting the bar or cloakroom. Latecomers are admitted only at a suitable break in the performance.
Shadowlands Tickets and Entry
E-tickets are delivered by email with instant confirmation. You may be asked to show a government-issued photo ID that matches the booking name when entering the theatre. Have your e-tickets ready on your phone or printed.
Aldwych Theatre Location and Transport
The Aldwych Theatre is located at 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF. Nearest tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly line, 5-minute walk), Temple (Circle and District lines, 7-minute walk) and Holborn (Central and Piccadilly lines, 8-minute walk). Charing Cross mainline station is a 10-minute walk.
Shadowlands Age Recommendation
Recommended for ages 12 and above. Under 5s are not admitted to the Aldwych Theatre. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult (minimum one adult per 10 children). All audience members require a valid ticket regardless of age.
Interval at Shadowlands
There is one interval of approximately 20 minutes. Refreshments are available at the Aldwych Theatre bar. You can pre-order interval drinks before the performance to avoid queues.
Please switch off mobile phones during the performance
Dress smart casual for a comfortable theatre visit
Arrive early to locate your seats and amenities
Children under 12 are not recommended to attend the show
Respect fellow guests and the cast by maintaining silence during the show
How long is Shadowlands at the Aldwych Theatre?
Shadowlands runs 2 hours 20 minutes including one interval of approximately 20 minutes.
What age is Shadowlands suitable for?
Shadowlands is recommended for ages 12 and above due to emotional themes including grief and terminal illness. Children under 5 are not admitted to the Aldwych Theatre. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Who is in the Shadowlands cast?
Hugh Bonneville plays C.S. Lewis and Maggie Siff plays Joy Davidman. The cast also includes Jeff Rawle as Major W.H. Lewis, Tony Jayawardena as Rev. Harry Harrington and Timothy Watson as Professor Christopher Riley.
When is Shadowlands playing in London?
Shadowlands runs at the Aldwych Theatre from 5 February to 9 May 2026. Evening performances are Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinees are Wednesday and Saturday at 2:30pm.
Is Shadowlands based on a true story?
Yes. Shadowlands tells the true story of C.S. Lewis and Joy Davidman. They married in 1956 when Lewis was 58. Joy died of cancer in 1960. Lewis wrote about his grief in the book A Grief Observed.
Who wrote Shadowlands?
William Nicholson wrote the original television film (1985), the stage play (1989) and the screenplay for the 1993 film starring Anthony Hopkins. He also wrote the screenplay for Gladiator.
Who directs Shadowlands at the Aldwych Theatre?
Rachel Kavanaugh directs this production of Shadowlands. She previously directed the 2019 Chichester Festival Theatre production with Hugh Bonneville.
Can I book last minute Shadowlands tickets?
Yes. tickadoo offers last minute Shadowlands tickets for same-day and next-day performances, subject to availability. Check the booking calendar for real-time seat availability and book online for instant confirmation.
Can I choose my own seats for Shadowlands?
Yes. When booking Shadowlands tickets through tickadoo, you can view the Aldwych Theatre seating plan and select your exact seats. Choose from stalls, dress circle, upper circle or balcony depending on availability and budget.
What are the best seats for Shadowlands at the Aldwych Theatre?
Stalls rows D to K offer close views with good sightlines. Dress circle front rows provide an elevated perspective of the full stage. Upper circle offers excellent value with clear views. Avoid extreme side seats if you want to see all stage action.
Are there audio described performances of Shadowlands?
Yes. An audio described performance of Shadowlands is scheduled for Saturday 28 March 2026 at 2:30pm.
Does Shadowlands have content warnings?
Shadowlands explores themes of grief, terminal illness and bereavement. The play is emotionally moving rather than distressing, but viewer discretion is advised for those sensitive to these subjects.
Where is Shadowlands playing in London?
Shadowlands is playing at the Aldwych Theatre, 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF. The nearest tube stations are Covent Garden, Temple and Holborn.
How do I get Shadowlands tickets?
Book Shadowlands tickets online through tickadoo. Select your preferred date and performance time, choose your own seats from the interactive seating plan, and receive e-tickets by email with instant confirmation.
Cannot be canceled or rescheduled
The Aldwych Theatre, 49 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF, United Kingdom
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