Shadowlands
Aldwych TheatreHugh Bonneville returns to the West End as C.S. Lewis in William Nicholson's moving drama about love loss and faith. With Maggie Siff as Joy Davidman. Book Shadowlands tickets at Aldwych Theatre for this acclaimed Chichester Festival Theatre production.
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What is Shadowlands about?
Shadowlands tells the moving true story of C.S. Lewis, the celebrated Oxford don and creator of The Chronicles of Narnia, whose orderly academic life is transformed by the arrival of Joy Davidman, a spirited American poet. What begins as a meeting of minds blossoms into an extraordinary love story that challenges everything Lewis has written about pain, faith and the meaning of life.
When Joy is diagnosed with a terminal illness, their bond is tested in ways neither could have imagined. Written by William Nicholson (Gladiator) and adapted from his BAFTA Award-winning TV movie, Shadowlands is a tender, witty and devastating exploration of how love can illuminate even life's darkest moments. Book Shadowlands tickets for this West End transfer of the acclaimed Chichester Festival Theatre production!
Why should I book Shadowlands tickets in London?
BAFTA, Emmy and Golden Globe nominee Hugh Bonneville (Downton Abbey, Paddington) reprises his widely praised performance as C.S. Lewis, with acclaimed American TV and stage star Maggie Siff (Mad Men, Sons of Anarchy, Billions) as Joy Davidman. Critics hailed Bonneville as "almost unbearably vivid" (The Guardian) in a production described as "entertaining, funny, deeply touching."
Shadowlands won the Evening Standard Award for Best Play on its original West End run and the Tony Award on Broadway. The 1993 film adaptation starring Anthony Hopkins and Debra Winger won the BAFTA Award for Outstanding British Film. Don't miss this strictly limited 11-week season at the Aldwych Theatre!
Is Shadowlands similar to other London plays?
Fans of intelligent, moving drama may also enjoy other acclaimed productions in the West End.
Know before you go
What age is Shadowlands suitable for?
Shadowlands is recommended for ages 12 and above. Under 5s cannot be admitted to the theatre. Children aged 15 or under must be accompanied by an adult.
How long is Shadowlands?
Shadowlands runs approximately 2 hours 20 minutes including one interval. Book tickets now – the show runs 5 February to 9 May 2026!
How do I get to Aldwych Theatre?
Aldwych Theatre is located on Aldwych, London WC2B 4DF. The nearest Underground stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly line) and Holborn (Central and Piccadilly lines), both approximately a 5-minute walk.
Visitor guidelines
Theatre Policies
Photography and video recording are not permitted during Shadowlands performances. Mobile phones must be switched off before the show begins.
Accessibility at Aldwych Theatre
Aldwych Theatre offers wheelchair accessible seating and accessible facilities. An Audio Described performance is scheduled for 28 March 2026. Contact the theatre's access line on 080 7836 5537 when booking tickets for specific requirements.
Facilities
The theatre features bars and refreshment facilities. Group rates are available for parties of 10 or more.
Cast and creatives
Who is in the Shadowlands cast?
Hugh Bonneville (Downton Abbey, Paddington) stars as C.S. Lewis, with Maggie Siff (Mad Men, Billions) as Joy Davidman. Jeff Rawle (Drop the Dead Donkey, Harry Potter) plays Major W.H. Lewis, Tony Jayawardena (Nye) plays Rev. Harry Harrington, and Timothy Watson plays Professor Christopher Riley. The cast also features Rebecca Blackstone, Nigel Fyfe, Jemma Geanaus, Sharan Phull, Leighton Pugh, Fode Simbo, Ernest Stroud and Giles Taylor.
Who created Shadowlands?
Shadowlands is written by William Nicholson and directed by Rachel Kavanaugh (Half A Sixpence). The creative team includes design by Peter McKintosh, lighting design by Howard Harrison, sound design by Fergus O'Hare and casting by Annelie Powell CDG.
Awards
What awards has Shadowlands won?
Shadowlands won the Evening Standard Award for Best Play on its original 1989 West End run, followed by a Tony Award-winning Broadway transfer. The 1993 film adaptation directed by Richard Attenborough, starring Anthony Hopkins and Debra Winger, won the BAFTA Award for Outstanding British Film.
Opening times
Tue-Sat 7:30pm, Wed & Thu 2:30pm, Sat 3pm
Frequently asked questions
When is Shadowlands at Aldwych Theatre?
Shadowlands runs 5 February to 9 May 2026 at Aldwych Theatre. Book tickets now!
Who plays C.S. Lewis?
Hugh Bonneville stars as C.S. Lewis, reprising his acclaimed Chichester Festival Theatre performance.
Is Shadowlands based on a true story?
Yes, Shadowlands is based on the true story of C.S. Lewis's relationship with American poet Joy Davidman.
How long is Shadowlands including interval?
Shadowlands runs approximately 2 hours 20 minutes including one interval.
In Aldwych Theatre
Venue address
49 Aldwych, London, WC2B 4DF
Seating plan
Access
WHEELCHAIR ACCESS:
Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating are available.
Are there adapted toilets?
Adapted toilets are located in the theatre foyer.
ASSISTED PERFORMANCES:Are there facilities for the hard-of-hearing?
There is an infrared loop system working throughout most of the auditorium (The system operates in the following seating areas: Stalls Rows E – P, Dress Circle rows A – K and Grand Circle rows A – K).
Are guide dogs and/or hearing dogs permitted?
Guide dogs are welcome everywhere in the theatre, and may be taken into the auditorium or looked after by theatre staff if required.
Please contact the theatre directly for further information.
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