Plays

Kunene and the King Tickets

Two actors performing on stage in a scene from "Kunene and the King" play.

Two actors in a dramatic scene from "Kunene and the King" on stage.

Two actors performing a scene from "Kunene and the King" on stage.

Two actors in a living room set, one seated in a chair, the other kneeling, from "Kunene and the King.

Duration

2 hr 36 min

Following a stunning premiere in Stratford-upon-Avon and a sold-out run in Cape Town, John Kani's critically acclaimed play Kunene and the King makes its way to West End.

Kunene and the King mark the 25th anniversary of the end of apartheid with a highly anticipated London run at The Ambassadors Theatre. The play is written by South African activist, actor and playwright John Kani (The Island, Black Panther) and directed by Janice Honeyman (The Tempest, 2009). A refreshingly funny and vital play on the anniversary of the first post-apartheid democratic elections, Kunene and the King reflects on a quarter-century of change without ever getting too preachy or heavy-handed.

The Story

The play is set in South Africa. Jack Morris (played by Antony Sher) is a white South African classical actor who is well known for performing in Shakespeare roles. He’s been offered the title role in King Lear. He accepts it, only to discover soon after that he has liver cancer. After this life-changing diagnosis, he refuses to stay in the hospital and discharges himself. Lunga Kunene, a black South African (played by John Kani) becomes his at-home carer. Bonding over a shared passion for Shakespeare, the two men from seemingly different backgrounds reflect on the 25 years of apartheid-free Africa.

Good for

Drama | Play | Political activism

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Headout Guest
Feb, 2020Verified booking
5/5
All my expectations were fulfilled. It was exciting, brought all the memories of my country, the apartheid era, the township life especially the taxi issues, and what about the old ladies disciplining a man saying bulala umthakathi and the music with the old grama phone and above all Shakespeare being played in IsiXhosa that was hilarious, I will come again well done Sister Kunene!
Headout Guest
Feb, 2020Verified booking
5/5
Communications and updates clear and timely
Headout Guest
Feb, 2020Verified booking
5/5
Ease of use

Show Details

Opening Date: 24 Jan, 2020
Closing Date: 28 Mar, 2020

Show Timings

Monday 7:30 PM

Tuesday 7:30 PM

Wednesday 3:00 PM & 7:30 PM

Thursday 7:30 PM

Friday 7:30 PM

Saturday 3:00 PM & 7:30 PM

Sunday 7:30 PM

Leading Roles
Antony Sher as Jack Morris
John Kani as Lunga Kunene

Directed By
Janice Honeyman

Music By
Neo Muyanga

Additional Info

Duration
1h 36min

Audience
This show contains strobe lighting, strong language, and some scenes that audiences may find upsetting.

Available Facilities
Bar
Toilets
Infrared hearing loops
Wheelchair transfers

Seating
The Ambassadors Theatre has a seating capacity of 444

Dress Code
Smart and casual wear is recommended. Carry a few layers; the theatre is air-conditioned through the year and can get a bit chilly