ROYO, one of the UK’s leading commercial theatre producers, has announced a strategic expansion into Asia through its subsidiary RTS Entertainment.
As part of this initiative, Rambert’s acclaimed production Peaky Blinders: The Redemption of Thomas Shelby will tour mainland China in Spring 2026, marking the company’s historic return to the region during its centenary year.
The production, based on the global Netflix hit Peaky Blinders, has already captivated UK audiences with its powerful blend of dance theatre and live music.
Helen Shute, CEO of Rambert, said: “International touring has always been part of Rambert’s DNA: it connects us beyond language, strengthens creative partnerships, and sustains our future at a time when global exchange is not only inspiring, but essential for artistic and financial resilience. We are truly honoured to return in our centenary year, and with the support of Boris and the RTS team, to meet our audiences in China again.”
Boris Cao, CEO of RTS Entertainment, added: “We are very proud to bring Rambert back to China in celebration of their 100th year. Chinese audiences will connect deeply with Peaky Blinders’ universal story of hope and rebirth, just like audiences in the UK.”
RTS Entertainment, based in Shanghai and London, has previously presented Life of Pi and Murder On the Orient Express to Chinese audiences, and continues to be a market leader in international theatre presentation.
Tom De Keyser, CEO of ROYO Group, commented: “Having RTS within the ROYO Group allows us to provide unparalleled support to British producers and performing arts institutions seeking to export their work to global audiences. Audiences and theatres in China are some of the best in the world, and hold British productions in great esteem, so it continues to be a growing market that we are excited to be working in.”
Peaky Blinders: The Redemption of Thomas Shelby opens in the trenches of Flanders and follows the Shelby family through post-war Birmingham, exploring themes of power, loyalty and love.
Written by Steven Knight, creator of the original TV series, and choreographed and directed by Rambert’s Artistic Director Benoit Swan Pouffer, the production features a live on-stage band performing original music by Roman GianArthur alongside iconic tracks from Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Radiohead, Anna Calvi, The Last Shadow Puppets, Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
