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. Written and directed by Olivier Award-winner Robert Icke, this stage adaptation is based on the Oscar-winning 2007 film.

Set in 1984 East Germany, the story follows a writer and an actor who are placed under state surveillance. From the attic above their apartment, a Stasi officer listens for evidence of subversion, as the act of observing a life begins to affect his own.

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

Key facts: Based on the Oscar-winning 2007 film; written and directed by Robert Icke; at the Adelphi Theatre; strictly limited run from 14 October 2026.

Before you book

This production is suitable for ages 14 and over and contains themes of an adult nature.

Audio described performance: Saturday 5 December 2026, 2:30pm. Captioned performance: Saturday 7 November 2026, 2:30pm. BSL signed performance: Saturday 14 November 2026, 2:30pm.

Refunds and exchanges: No exchanges or refunds after purchase.

Accessibility: Contact the box office for more information.

Venue

Adelphi Theatre

409-412 Strand, London, United Kingdom

Box office: Contact the box office for more information.

Current cast

The current cast includes Keira Knightley, Luke Thompson and Stephen Dillane.

Description supplied by the event organiser.