Theatre
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Everything you need to know about The Lives of Others
All the information you need on the new stage adaptation of the hit 2006 film as it comes to the Adelphi Theatre
All the information you need on the new stage adaptation of the hit 2006 film as it comes to the Adelphi Theatre
The Lives of Others is coming to the West End in a brand new stage adaptation, with some seriously big names in the cast and crew. An exploration of paranoia, surveillance, censorship and control, it’s both high-stakes and intimate – and set to be one of the best new dramas premiering this year. Here’s everything you need to know about The Lives of Others onstage.
Is The Lives of Others play based on the film?
Yes, the play is based on the 2006 German drama film of the same name written and directed by Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck. The original film received widespread acclaim, winning the 2007 Academy Award for Best International Feature Film
Who stars in The Lives of Others onstage?
Starring in the three main roles are Academy Award nominee Keira Knightley, Emmy Award winner Stephen Dillane and Olivier Award nominee Luke Thompson
Kiera Knightly is one of the most successful actresses of her day with too many defining on-screen roles to name, including celebrated turns in Pride and Prejudice and the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. In 2010, she received an Olivier Award nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for Misanthrope.
Stephen Dillane is the winner of an International Emmy for The Tunnel, and a Tony Award for The Real Thing. His theatre resume is immense, and on-screen he’s known for projects like The Crown and Game of Thrones.
Luke Thompson is best known for his role in Bridgerton as Benedict, becoming the show’s leading man in its recent fourth series. His stage work includes appearances in A Little Life, King Lear and Julius Ceaser.
What is The Lives of Others about?
Set in 1984 in East Germany, The Lives of Others follows a writer and an actor who are placed under state surveillance. From the attic above their apartment, their Stasi man listens for evidence of subversion. But he may find that in observing their lives, his own is impacted more than anticipated.
What theatre will The Lives of Others play at?
The Lives of Others will play at the Adelphi Theatre in London’s West End.
When will The Lives of Others come to London?
The show is already in previews, with an opening night set for 29 October. It will run until 9 January 2027.
Who is The Lives of Others directed by?
The play is directed and adapted for stage by Robert Icke. It marks the latest collaboration between Icke and producer Sonia Friedman following previous work including Oedipus, Manhunt, Hamlet, The Doctor, Oresteia and 1984.
Who else is in the cast?
Joining Knightly, Dillane and Thompson are Jamie Ankrah, Jake Benson, Matt Ray Brown, Lucy Doyle, Calum Finlay, Josh Gordon, Paul Higgins, Leda Hodgson, Nick Holder, Sibylla Meienberg, Irfan Shamji, Richard Sutton and Andrew Woodall.
Who’s on the creative team?
The show features set and costume design by Hildegard Bechtler, lighting design by Jon Clark, sound design by Giles Thomas, video design by Tal Yarden and original music by Max Richter. Casting is by Julia Horan.
Do I need to have seen the original film?
No, The Lives of Others is an adaptation of the film’s story, not a continuation of it. It’s suited both for those familiar with the original film and those coming to this story for the first time.
Why should I see it?
This is an electrifying adaptation by a team responsible for a host of West End successes, starring some of the finest stage and screen acting talent. It has lots to say about artistic censorship, state surveillance and the relationship between art and politics, but it’s also a very human story at its core – one well worth listening to.
