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, 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 stage adaptation 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, and plays for a strictly limited run from 14 October 2026.

Key facts: Strictly limited run at the Adelphi Theatre from 14 October 2026.

Before you book

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

Refunds and exchanges: No exchanges or refunds are available after purchase.

Accessible performances: 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.

Venue

Adelphi Theatre

409-412 Strand, London, United Kingdom

Contact the box office for more information about access.

Current cast

Current cast includes Academy Award nominee Keira Knightley (Black Doves, Atonement, The Misanthrope), Olivier Award nominee Luke Thompson (Bridgerton, Dunkirk, Oresteia) and Emmy Award winner Stephen Dillane (Game of Thrones, The Tunnel, Vigil).

Description supplied by the event organiser.