BAFTA, Emmy, and Golden Globe-nominated actor Hugh Bonneville will return to the West End in Shadowlands, William Nicholson’s much-loved play about C.S. Lewis.
The production, directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, will run at the Aldwych Theatre from 5 February to 9 May 2026.
Shadowlands tells the poignant true story of C.S. Lewis, the renowned author of The Chronicles of Narnia, whose structured academic life is disrupted by the arrival of American poet Joy Davidman.
What begins as a meeting of minds evolves into a deeply moving exploration of love, loss, and the human condition.
The play was originally produced by Chichester Festival Theatre in 2019, where it received critical acclaim.
Hugh Bonneville reprises his role as Lewis in this West End transfer. Further casting is yet to be announced.
Bonneville said:
“Under Rachel Kavanaugh’s direction, I am thrilled to be revisiting William Nicholson’s beautiful play about love and loss as we bring the show to London audiences at The Aldwych. This theatre holds a special place in my heart as it’s where I saw my first Shakespeare, Peter Brook’s legendary RSC production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream in 1970.”
Bonneville is best known for his roles in Downton Abbey and the Paddington films, with additional screen credits including Notting Hill, Iris, and The Monuments Men.
His stage work includes performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company and roles in King Lear at the Old Vic and Uncle Vanya in the U.S.
Shadowlands was originally a BAFTA Award-winning TV movie before being adapted for the stage, where it won the Evening Standard Award for Best Play and later a Tony Award on Broadway.
It was also adapted into a 1993 feature film directed by Richard Attenborough, starring Anthony Hopkins and Debra Winger.
The West End production is presented by Jonathan Church Theatre Productions, Trafalgar Theatre Productions and Tilted, with casting by Annelie Powell CDG.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
