About Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck’s The Lives of Others

Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck’s The Lives of Others plays at the Adelphi Theatre from 14 October 2026 for a strictly limited run. Set in 1984 East Germany, it follows a writer and an actor placed under state surveillance, while the Stasi officer listening from the attic above their apartment begins to be changed by what he hears.

Written and directed by Olivier Award-winner Robert Icke and based on the Oscar-winning 2007 film, this adaptation focuses on artistic censorship, state surveillance and the relationship between art and politics. It stars Academy Award nominee Keira Knightley, Olivier Award nominee Luke Thompson and Emmy Award winner Stephen Dillane.

Key facts: Adelphi Theatre; from 14 October 2026; strictly limited run; accessible performances currently listed are Captioned on Saturday 7 November 2026 at 2:30pm, BSL Signed on Saturday 14 November 2026 at 2:30pm, and Audio Described on Saturday 5 December 2026 at 2:30pm.

Before you book

Suitable for ages 14 years and older. The production contains themes of an adult nature.

No exchanges or refunds are offered after purchase.

Venue

Adelphi Theatre

409-412 Strand, London, United Kingdom

For access information, contact the box office for more information.

Current cast

Keira Knightley, Luke Thompson and Stephen Dillane star in the production. Knightley is credited with Black Doves, Atonement and The Misanthrope; Thompson with Bridgerton, Dunkirk and Oresteia; and Dillane with Game of Thrones, The Tunnel and Vigil.

Description supplied by the event organiser.