A bumper season full of theatrical delights!
The Royal Court Theatre has unveiled a spectacular year-long programme to mark its 70th anniversary in 2026- a milestone season celebrating seven decades of groundbreaking new writing in London theatre.
Spanning 12 productions across its iconic stages, the Jerwood Theatre Downstairs and Upstairs, the anniversary season blends world premieres, European debuts, legendary revivals, and bold national initiatives. The Royal Court continues its legacy as the beating heart of contemporary British theatre, nurturing emerging playwrights while honouring its trailblazing past.
Artistic Director David Byrne said:
“Everybody back to ours. The Royal Court is turning 70 with the most thrilling season we could imagine. On our stages and far beyond, we’re throwing a legendary, year-long party and you’re all invited.”
Highlights include Luke Norris’ romantic drama Guess How Much I Love You?, starring Robert Aramayo and Rosie Sheehy, and Ryan Calais Cameron’s The Afronauts, inspired by Zambia’s space race. Tilda Swinton makes a long-awaited stage return in Man to Man, while Gary Oldman stars in Krapp’s Last Tape — both paying homage to the Court’s extraordinary history.
The Upstairs Theatre will champion fresh voices discovered through open submissions, including The Shitheads by Jack Nicholls and Are You Watching? by Georgie Dettmer. A new collaboration with BBC Radio 4 will bring Royal Court classics to the airwaves, while the Jerwood Royal Court Commissioning Scheme will fund new writing nationwide.
Executive Director Will Young said:
“Our 70th anniversary isn't just about the past – it's a moment to direct every bit of new thinking and resource into the pipeline for the next 70 years.”
With its bold mix of premieres, partnerships, and a renewed commitment to discovering the next generation of playwrights, the Royal Court’s 70th anniversary season reaffirms its place at the centre of the UK’s cultural stage.
photo credit: Guy J Sanders
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