Florian Henckel Von Donnersmarck’s The Lives Of Others

About Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck’s The Lives of Others

Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck’s The Lives of Others at the Adelphi Theatre is set in 1984 East Germany, where a writer and an actor are placed under state surveillance. From the attic above their apartment, a Stasi officer listens for evidence of subversion, but watching their lives begins to change his own.

Written and directed by Olivier Award-winner Robert Icke, this stage adaptation is based on the Oscar-winning 2007 film. It focuses on artistic censorship, state surveillance and the relationship between art and politics.

Starring Academy Award nominee Keira Knightley, Olivier Award nominee Luke Thompson and Emmy Award winner Stephen Dillane, the production begins at the Adelphi Theatre on 14 October 2026 for a strictly limited run.

Based on the Oscar-winning 2007 film and playing at the Adelphi Theatre from 14 October 2026 for a strictly limited run.

Before you book

Suitable for ages 14 years and older. This production contains themes of an adult nature. No exchanges or refunds are available after purchase.

Accessible performances are scheduled for Saturday 7 November 2026 at 2:30pm (captioned), Saturday 14 November 2026 at 2:30pm (BSL signed) and Saturday 5 December 2026 at 2:30pm (audio described). Contact the box office for more information.

Venue

Adelphi Theatre, 409-412 Strand, London, United Kingdom.

Contact the box office for more information about access.

Current cast

Keira Knightley, Luke Thompson and Stephen Dillane star in the production. Knightley is an Academy Award nominee, Thompson is an Olivier Award nominee and Dillane is an Emmy Award winner.