Plays

The Standard of Living

A witty, incisive new play about power, art, and legacy, this highly anticipated world premiere offers sharp humor and profound social commentary in a strictly limited run at a historic London venue.

4.8/5(25)

Teresa P

Couple

Verified booking

2 weeks ago

Rory Kinnear did a masterful job of portraying John Maynard Keynes, despite the physical differences between them (Keynes tall and thin, Kinnear shorter). He was in every scene of the play and managed to maintain the energy and intellectual vigor of Keynes throughout. The influence of the Bloomsbury group was well presented. And the ballet interludes that indicated the progress of Lydia as she made her way to England were a beautiful dsitraction from the serious dialogue about Keynes's economic thinking. I was doubtful, at first, that such a dry topic as Keynesian Theory could be thse subject of a 2+ hour play. But the cast carried it off masterfully. It was a great performance.

Joanna B

Solo

Verified booking

3 weeks ago

An outstanding performance. With beautiful choreography. A modern take on theater: utilizing floor-to-ceiling screens that glide across the stage creating beautiful spaces between scenes for extras and dancers to move. I especially love the aesthetic when the main actress was dancing in the floor above Maynard's friends. The division of space was beautiful. The division of mentality hilarious. Everything was designed beautifully and every actor memorable. Really inspiring work.

Michael B

Solo

Verified booking

Sep 2026

Excellent theatre.I am a US based economic historian so I know the story well.Dont quite agree on the portrayal of Hayek or of Harry Dexter White but that doesn't detract from the excellent production.

A razor-sharp new play by Olivier Award-winner James Graham, The Standard of Living explores the intersection of politics, art, and human desire with brilliance and biting wit.

Hailed as one of the most anticipated events of London’s vibrant theatre season, the production marks a major West End event under the direction of multi-award winner Nicholas Hytner.

Themes of ambition, societal value, and the true meaning of a "good life" are brought to life with a stellar creative team and a sweeping, character-driven story. Book The Standard of Living London tickets for a night of thought-provoking, world-class theatre.

This strictly limited 12-week run at Theatre Royal Haymarket is a rare chance to see top-tier talent, featuring powerhouse performances from Rory Kinnear and Royal Ballet Principal Natalia Osipova.

Set against decades of economic collapse and cultural upheaval in 20th-century Britain, the play follows rebel economist John Maynard Keynes. Moving between the intense corridors of power in Whitehall and the intoxicating freedom of his radical Bloomsbury Group circle, Keynes attempts to build a fairer financial model and champion the arts. But as markets crash and old systems crumble, his personal and public worlds collide, forcing him to face one ultimate question: What truly makes a life worth living?

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

25 reviews
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What our guests say
Teresa P
Couple
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
Rory Kinnear did a masterful job of portraying John Maynard Keynes, despite the physical differences between them (Keynes tall and thin, Kinnear shorter). He was in every scene of the play and managed to maintain the energy and intellectual vigor of Keynes throughout. The influence of the Bloomsbury group was well presented. And the ballet interludes that indicated the progress of Lydia as she made her way to England were a beautiful dsitraction from the serious dialogue about Keynes's economic thinking. I was doubtful, at first, that such a dry topic as Keynesian Theory could be thse subject of a 2+ hour play. But the cast carried it off masterfully. It was a great performance.
Joanna B
Solo
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
An outstanding performance. With beautiful choreography. A modern take on theater: utilizing floor-to-ceiling screens that glide across the stage creating beautiful spaces between scenes for extras and dancers to move. I especially love the aesthetic when the main actress was dancing in the floor above Maynard's friends. The division of space was beautiful. The division of mentality hilarious. Everything was designed beautifully and every actor memorable. Really inspiring work.
Kay J
Solo
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
Rory Kinnear is beyond excellent in this oddly timely historical play. I found it moving and won't soon forget this story.
Robin D
Group
Verified booking
2 days ago
Great seats! Great service and follow-thru! Ty, Headout.
Paola P
Solo
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
Fascinating play. Great set design.

Show details

Categories: Play, Drama, Classic, Critics' Choice

Audience: Suitable for 12+

Theater name: Theatre Royal Haymarket

Find the best seats in the house with the Theatre Royal Haymarket seating plan

Facilities: Bar, restrooms, cloakroom, lounge

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, accessible toilets, accessible seating, assistive listening devices

Cast & crew

John Maynard Keynes: Rory Kinnear

Lydia Lopokova: Natalia Osipova

Director: Nicholas Hytner

Writer: James Graham

Set designer: Bob Crowley

Additional info

Suitable for ages above 12

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

Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.

Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.

Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show

Frequently Asked Questions about The Standard of Living

Q: How much do The Standard of Living London tickets cost?

A: Prices may change based on your choice of seats and show dates.

Q: Where is The Standard of Living playing in London?

A: The play is enjoying a strictly limited 12-week engagement at the historic Theatre Royal Haymarket in the West End.

Q: How long does the performance run?

A: The estimated running time is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, which includes a 20-minute interval.

Q: What’s the story about?

A: Two friends dream of a better life, but their fantasies clash with reality in this witty play about class and ambition.

Q: Is the show suitable for children?

A: The production has an official age guidance of 12 and above due to its complex adult themes surrounding politics, economics, and relationships.