Brilliant minds, burning hearts and the unstoppable pull between chaos and order will take centre stage at The Old Vic in 2026, as Tom Stoppard’s Arcadia returns for a limited run.
From 24 January to 21 March 2026, Arcadia will be brought thrillingly to life by acclaimed director Carrie Cracknell, marking her debut at the iconic London venue.
Set in a country house across two centuries, Arcadia explores the collision of intellect and emotion. A teenage prodigy uncovers the mathematics of the universe, while the adults around her struggle to mask their passions with reason.
In the present day, scholars chase the ghosts of that same household — seeking truth, proof and perhaps each other.
Cracknell said: “Tom Stoppard’s greatest play is a dazzling meditation on our endless search for understanding — of ourselves, of history and of the patterns that connect everything from mathematics to desire.”
She continued: “In an age overflowing with cheap information but hungry for wisdom, Arcadia feels more prescient than ever. Its wit, beauty and curiosity remind us that the pursuit of knowledge is a deeply human joy.”
The production is part of Matthew Warchus’ final season as Artistic Director at The Old Vic, and will be staged in the round.
Access performances include Audio Described, BSL Interpreted, Captioned and Relaxed performances, with details available via The Old Vic’s website.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
