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 plays at the Adelphi Theatre in London. Set in 1984 East Germany, the story follows a writer and an actor placed under state surveillance, with a Stasi officer listening from the attic above their apartment for signs of subversion.

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

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

Key facts: Adelphi Theatre, London; strictly limited run from 14 October 2026; suitable for ages 14 and over; contains themes of an adult nature; audio described performance on Saturday 5 December 2026 at 2:30pm; captioned performance on Saturday 7 November 2026 at 2:30pm; BSL signed performance on Saturday 14 November 2026 at 2:30pm.

Before you book

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

If you need more information on access, contact the box office.

Venue

Adelphi Theatre
409-412 Strand, London, United Kingdom

For venue access information, contact the box office.

Current cast

Keira Knightley (Black Doves, Atonement, The Misanthrope), Luke Thompson (Bridgerton, Dunkirk, Oresteia) and Stephen Dillane (Game of Thrones, The Tunnel, Vigil).