Prepare to be enthralled as the National Theatre unveils an extraordinary line-up for 2025, offering an exceptional array of performances across the South Bank, in cinemas, and even from the comfort of your home. Whether it’s celebrating Stephen Sondheim’s final musical, enjoying the Olivier Award-winning Hadestown, or rediscovering War Horse on tour, 2025 promises a year packed with world-class theatre.
On Stage at the National Theatre
The Importance of Being Earnest
- Dates: Running until 25 January 2025
- Venue: Lyttelton Theatre
Oscar Wilde’s iconic comedy, directed by Max Webster, continues to captivate audiences with its wit and sharp social commentary. With a stellar cast including Sharon D Clarke, Ncuti Gatwa, and Hugh Skinner, this production offers a fresh take on Wilde’s timeless classic.
Tickets: Available at nationaltheatre.org.uk.
Ballet Shoes
- Dates: Until 22 February 2025
- Venue: Olivier Theatre
This enchanting adaptation of Noel Streatfeild’s beloved novel is a heartwarming story of three sisters pursuing their dreams. Directed by Katy Rudd (The Ocean at the End of the Lane), Ballet Shoes is a family-friendly treat that brings a nostalgic tale to life.
Tickets: Available at nationaltheatre.org.uk.
Alterations
- Dates: 20 February – 5 April 2025
- Venue: Lyttelton Theatre
Lynette Linton reinvigorates Michael Abbensetts’ 1970s-era comedy, exploring the ambitions and struggles of a tailor in London’s Caribbean community. Featuring Arinzé Kene and Cherrelle Skeete, Alterations blends sharp humour with poignant social commentary.
Tickets: Available at nationaltheatre.org.uk.
Dear England
- Dates: 10 March – 24 May 2025 (National Theatre), 29 May – 29 June 2025 (The Lowry, Salford)
James Graham’s Olivier Award-winning play about Gareth Southgate and the England men’s football team returns with new updates reflecting recent championships. Directed by Rupert Goold, Dear England examines the team’s evolving role in English society.
Tickets: Available at nationaltheatre.org.uk.
Here We Are
- Dates: 23 April – 28 June 2025
- Venue: Olivier Theatre
Stephen Sondheim’s final musical receives its London debut under Joe Mantello’s direction. Featuring Tracie Bennett and Rory Kinnear, this production promises to be a standout event of the year.
Tickets: Available at nationaltheatre.org.uk.
London Road
- Dates: 5 June – 21 June 2025
- Venue: Olivier Theatre
Rufus Norris’ ground breaking verbatim musical returns, exploring how a community responded to tragedy with resilience and solidarity. Using innovative storytelling and a moving score, this is a must-see for theatre lovers.
Tickets: Available at nationaltheatre.org.uk.
Nye
- Dates: 3 July – 16 August 2025 (National Theatre), 22 – 30 August 2025 (Wales Millennium Centre)
Michael Sheen reprises his role as Aneurin Bevan in this epic fantasia exploring the creation of the NHS. Written by Tim Price and directed by Rufus Norris, Nye honours one of Britain’s most influential politicians.
Tickets: Available at nationaltheatre.org.uk.
National Theatre Live and Touring Productions
Dr Strangelove
- Release Date: 27 March 2025
Celebrate World Theatre Day with Stanley Kubrick’s Dr Strangelove, brought to cinemas by National Theatre Live. Starring Steve Coogan in a BAFTA-nominated performance, this dark comedy remains a biting satire of Cold War tensions.
Screenings: Find your nearest cinema at drstrangelove.ntlive.com.
Hadestown
- Venue: Lyric Theatre, West End
Anaïs Mitchell’s Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning musical continues its acclaimed West End run. This modern retelling of Orpheus and Eurydice’s mythic love story is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful experience.
Tickets: Starting at £20, available at uk.hadestown.com.
War Horse
- Dates: UK and Ireland tour until 8 November 2025
Michael Morpurgo’s beloved tale returns in a reimagined production featuring Handspring Puppet Company’s awe-inspiring life-sized horses. War Horse remains one of the National Theatre’s most successful and emotionally resonant works.
Tickets: Available at warhorseonstage.com.
Looking Ahead: New Premieres
2025 will also see four world premieres at the National Theatre:
- Inter Alia (Lyttelton Theatre): Suzie Miller and Justin Martin reunite with Rosamund Pike making her National Theatre debut.
- The Estate (Dorfman Theatre): A political drama by Shaan Sahota.
- The Land of the Living (Dorfman Theatre): Directed by Stephen Daldry, this poignant WWII story stars Juliet Stevenson.
- End (Dorfman Theatre): The concluding part of David Eldridge’s acclaimed trilogy.
Further details on these premieres will be announced in early 2025.
Why 2025 is a Must-See Year for Theatre
From dazzling musicals to ground-breaking dramas, the National Theatre’s 2025 programme offers something for everyone. With productions ranging from classic revivals to bold new works, this year is set to be a landmark in British theatre.
Whether you’re booking tickets for a family outing, celebrating World Theatre Day in cinemas, or exploring stories of resilience and creativity on stage, the National Theatre invites you to experience the magic of live performance.
For more information, visit nationaltheatre.org.uk or follow the National Theatre on social media. Secure your tickets now to avoid missing these unforgettable events!
