Enter the world before.
A long winter thaws in Harrenhal, and spring is promised. At a lavish banquet on the eve of a jousting tournament, lovers meet and revellers speculate about who will contend. But in the shadows, amid growing unease at the bloodthirsty actions of the realm’s merciless Mad King, dissenters from his inner circle anxiously advance a treasonous plot. Far away, the drums of battle sound.
Family bonds, ancient prophecies, and the sacred line of succession will be tested in a dangerous campaign for power. Who will survive? Who will rise?
'Wars aren’t won by those with most cause, but whose story’s best told.'
Game of Thrones: The Mad King is a sweeping new stage epic from the world of George R. R. Martin, written by Duncan Macmillan and directed by Dominic Cooke, coming to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre from Monday 20 July – Saturday 5 September 2026. Spanning the final years before the events of the novels, this powerful drama reveals a legendary chapter of Westerosi history.
Come face to face with familiar characters from the houses Targaryen, Stark, Lannister, Baratheon and Martell and witness the events that set the stage for the world’s most critically acclaimed series.
This unique stage show will see the Royal Shakespeare Theatre auditorium transformed, bringing the action to life around you.
Playing on a cross shaped stage, no two seats will offer the same experience or viewpoint. Pick your seat and enjoy theatre at the RSC like never before.
For more information on the themes and content of the play please visit our content advisory page.
BOOKING INFORMATION
Game of Thrones: The Mad King will play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre from Monday 20 July – Saturday 5 September 2026.
Join as an RSC supporter to access Priority Booking from 14 April.
Artists Circle and Gold Patrons Tuesday 14 April
Silver Patrons Wednesday 15 April
Bronze Patrons Thursday 16 April
Members Friday 17 April
Subscribers Tuesday 21 April
Public Booking Wednesday 22 April
Due to expected high demand, tickets are limited to 4 per person.
JOIN TODAY
Game of Thrones: The Mad King is co-produced with Simon Painter, Tim Lawson, Mark Manuel, Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures obo HBO and Len Blavatnik and Danny Cohen for Access Entertainment.
New Work at the RSC is generously supported by Hawthornden Foundation and The Drue and H.J. Heinz II Charitable Trust
