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Plays

The Tempest

All ages

Age guidance

All ages

Category

Plays

Ratings & Reviews

British Theatre has covered The Tempest in 8 articles since 2015.

From our critics

Julia Jordan · 24 December 2024

The Tempest: Sigourney Weaver's West End Debut Divides Critics

Jamie Lloyd's stark, modernist production of The Tempest, featuring Sigourney Weaver's West End debut as Prospero, has sparked intense critical debate about the intersection of star power and Shakespearean tradition.

Read the review →

Julian Eaves · 15 March 2020

REVIEW: The Tempest, Jermyn Street Theatre London ✭✭✭

Julian Eaves reviews William Shakespeare's The Tempest directed by Trevor Nunn at Jermyn Street Theatre, London until 4 April 2020

Read the review →

About the show

Experience Shakespeare's magical tale of power and freedom by candlelight at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. Tim Crouch directs and stars as Prospero with Naomi Wirthner as Ariel. Book The Tempest tickets for this unique theatrical experience.

What is The Tempest about?

Prospero, Miranda, Caliban and Ariel. Four lost souls stranded on this island with no hope of escape. As the years pass, they tell themselves a story, a story that is told over and over. A story of past wrongs. A story of desire and revenge. A story of a storm that will rescue and redeem them. A story that conjures other characters out of air, out of thin air. An imagined enchantment. But will salvation ever really come?

Award-winning theatre maker Tim Crouch (I, Malvolio; An Oak Tree) brings his unique, high-concept theatrical approach to Shakespeare's tale of power, freedom and the magic of story in the candlelit Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. Book The Tempest tickets for this extraordinary production at Shakespeare's Globe!

Why should I book The Tempest tickets at Shakespeare's Globe?

This marks Tim Crouch's Globe directorial debut, with Crouch also starring as Prospero. Slow Horses star Naomi Wirthner (How to Train Your Dragon) plays Ariel. The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, Shakespeare's indoor candlelit theatre, provides an intimate, atmospheric setting that transforms The Tempest into a truly magical experience.

Crouch's concept sees Prospero and his companions gathering monthly to tell stories of how they might be rescued, with Shakespeare's plot just one of the tales they imagine. It's a fresh, inventive approach to one of the Bard's most beloved plays.

Is The Tempest similar to other London plays?

Fans of Shakespeare may also enjoy other productions at Shakespeare's Globe and the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse throughout the season.

Performance schedule

Tue-Sun various times

Cast & Creatives

Full cast & creatives

Who is in The Tempest cast?

Tim Crouch stars as Prospero, with Naomi Wirthner (Slow Horses, How to Train Your Dragon) as Ariel. The cast also includes Faizal Abdullah as Caliban, Sophie Steer as Miranda, Jo Stone-Fewings as Alonso, Joshua Griffin as Ferdinand, Colin Michael Carmichael as Sebastian, Amanda Hadingue as Antonia, Tyrone Huggins as Gonzalo, Mercè Ribot as Trinculo and Patricia Rodriguez as Stephano.

Who created this production of The Tempest?

The Tempest is directed by Tim Crouch with Associate Director Justina Kehinde. The creative team includes designer Rachana Jadhav, composer Orlando Gough, candlelight designer Anna Watson and voice and text consultant Annemette Verspeak.

Recognition

Tim Crouch is an award-winning theatre maker known for innovative, metatheatrical work including I, Malvolio at Shakespeare's Globe and An Oak Tree at the Young Vic. This marks his first time directing at the Globe.

Frequently asked questions

What age is The Tempest suitable for?

The Tempest is suitable for all ages. All under 16s must be accompanied by an adult and cannot be seated separately.

How long is The Tempest?

Running time to be confirmed. Book The Tempest tickets now – the show runs 17 January to 12 April 2026!

How do I get to the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse?

Sam Wanamaker Playhouse is located at Shakespeare's Globe, 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London SE1 9DT. The nearest Underground station is London Bridge (Northern and Jubilee lines), approximately a 10-minute walk.

Theatre Policies

Photography and video recording are not permitted during The Tempest performances. The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse is lit entirely by candlelight for an authentic Jacobean theatrical experience.

Accessibility at Sam Wanamaker Playhouse

Shakespeare's Globe offers accessible seating, accessible toilets and hearing enhancement systems. Contact the venue when booking The Tempest tickets for specific accessibility requirements.

Facilities

Shakespeare's Globe features a restaurant, café and bars. The riverside location offers stunning views of the Thames and St Paul's Cathedral.

When is The Tempest at Sam Wanamaker Playhouse?

The Tempest runs 17 January to 12 April 2026 at Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. Book tickets now!

Who plays Prospero?

Tim Crouch directs and stars as Prospero in this production.

Is the theatre lit by candles?

Yes, the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse is lit entirely by candlelight, recreating the atmosphere of Jacobean indoor theatre.

Can children attend?

Yes, all ages are welcome. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.

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The Tempest

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