Plays

Shadowlands Tickets

Name: Shadowlands
Start: 2026-05-06T14:30:00
End: 2026-05-06T16:50:00
Location: Aldwych Theatre

Child and elderly man playing chess on stage during Shadowlands performance, Westend.

Stage scene from Shadowlands performance, West End, featuring actors in a library setting.

Stage performance of "Shadowlands" in West End with actors in period costumes at a table.

Stage scene from Shadowlands, Westend, featuring two actors in an emotional embrace.

Duration

2 hr 20 min

Shadowlands brings the powerful, true story of C.S. Lewis to life at London’s Aldwych Theatre. Witness a tale of unexpected love and heartbreaking loss, starring Hugh Bonneville.

4.8/5(165)

Mrs Helen B

Couple

Verified booking

3 weeks ago

The soliloquy at the beginning was outstanding and set the scene emotionally and spiritually for the play! Equally the death scene just before the end and the discussion about it amongst the Dons was a fitting conclusion! Hugh Bonnrvilles character development as Jack was brilliantly played. Overall a sensitive, well acted and thought provoking performances of a brilliant book

John C

Couple

Verified booking

2 weeks ago

Story, writing and performance all top-notch, humorous and yet touching, a lot to think about God, religion, life, love, death and kindness, thoroughly enjoyed every moment and wonderful venue with very friendly and helpful staff

Africa Z

Solo

Verified booking

3 weeks ago

The actors and the dialogue was amazing I was also very pleased with my seating at A18 circle as I enjoyed a great aerial view of the scenes . I loved the whole experience and have recommended to my friend

Janice S

Group

Verified booking

3 weeks ago

The staff at the door were very helpful with one of our party who had difficulty with steps. The atmosphere in the theatre was wonderful and the performance nothing short of brilliant.

Anna R

Couple

Verified booking

2 days ago

Lovely theatre, very captivating story and absolutely brilliant cast! The show kept us engaged throughout and reminded how theater makes us feels so alive. Would recommend to anyone!

Jyoti H

Solo

Verified booking

2 weeks ago

It was a wonderful play. A feel happy play although sad too. The performers were just amazing. I'm so glad I chose this as the one play I was able to see on my trip.

All LTD/Entertainment show general inclusions

All LTD/Entertainment show general exclusions

Step into the intimate world of C.S. Lewis, where an unlikely love story blossoms against the backdrop of grief, faith, and the quest for meaning in a tumultuous time.

Hugh Bonneville delivers an unforgettable performance, capturing the vulnerability and complexity of one of the 20th century's most beloved authors.

Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, this critically acclaimed production delves deep into human emotions, offering a rich exploration of love, loss, and transformation.

Shadowlands takes you beyond the familiar landscapes of The Chronicles of Narnia, offering a window into the personal struggles that shaped C.S. Lewis's heart and mind.

The story

Shadowlands unfolds the true story of C.S. Lewis, the renowned author of The Chronicles of Narnia, whose life is transformed by his relationship with American poet Joy Davidman. Set in 1950s Oxford, the play explores themes of love, faith, and the human condition. As their bond deepens, Lewis grapples with the complexities of faith and the inevitability of loss. The narrative challenges his previously held beliefs, leading to a profound personal transformation.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

165 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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Guests from United States, Canada, Germany and over 17 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Africa Z
Solo
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
The actors and the dialogue was amazing I was also very pleased with my seating at A18 circle as I enjoyed a great aerial view of the scenes . I loved the whole experience and have recommended to my friend
Paul M
Couple
Verified booking
2 days ago
It was a moving production on an elegant stage. Hugh Bonneville and Maggie Siff were great but the whole cast delivered thoughtful and (mostly) understated performances. The story was quietly powerful, unfolding with with warmth, intelligence, and emotional restraint. It did feel a bit too long, however, with some scenes lingering more than necessary. Even so, it was a reflective and rewarding experience that's well worth seeing.
Mrs Helen B
Couple
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
The soliloquy at the beginning was outstanding and set the scene emotionally and spiritually for the play! Equally the death scene just before the end and the discussion about it amongst the Dons was a fitting conclusion! Hugh Bonnrvilles character development as Jack was brilliantly played. Overall a sensitive, well acted and thought provoking performances of a brilliant book
John C
Couple
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
Story, writing and performance all top-notch, humorous and yet touching, a lot to think about God, religion, life, love, death and kindness, thoroughly enjoyed every moment and wonderful venue with very friendly and helpful staff
Janice S
Group
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
The staff at the door were very helpful with one of our party who had difficulty with steps. The atmosphere in the theatre was wonderful and the performance nothing short of brilliant.

Show details

Genre: Plays

Audience: Suitable for 12+ yrs

Theater name: Aldwych Theatre

Theater facilities: restrooms, bar, cloakroom

Theater accessibility: wheelchair accessible, step-free access, access performances, hearing assistance

Dress code: Smart casual

Cast & crew

Leading roles: Hugh Bonneville as C.S. Lewis, Lara Rossi as Joy Davidman

Director: Rachel Kavanaugh

Producer: Dominic Madden

Playwright: William Nicholson

Set designer: Miriam Buether

Costume designer: Sue Blane

Additional info

This show is suitable for ages 12 and above.

Content warning: The play contains themes of grief, loss, and emotional trauma. Viewer discretion is advised.

Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!

Most theatres are air-conditioned year-round, so it can get a bit chilly. Bring a light jacket just in case.