Donmar Warehouse Reveals Diverse 2026 Theatre Season in Covent Garden
In a week packed with major theatre announcements across London, the prestigious Donmar Warehouse has now unveiled its full 2026 season. Artistic director Timothy Sheader has confirmed four wildly eclectic productions for the boutique Covent Garden venue, with only the Christmas slot remaining unprogrammed. This follows the earlier announcement of Anna Ziegler's Evening All Afternoon, which opens next month, completing a robust year of theatrical offerings.
A Season of Adaptation and Revival
The Donmar's 2026 lineup showcases a compelling mix of contemporary adaptations and classic revivals, reflecting the theatre's commitment to diverse storytelling. The season opens with Mass (April 18 to June 6), an adaptation by US actor-writer-director Fran Kranz of his own hit indie film. Directed by Carrie Cracknell, this powerful drama explores the painful reconciliation attempts between two sets of parents – those of a high school shooting victim and the shooter – years after the tragic event. The production features a top-tier cast including Adeel Akhtar, Amari Bacchus, Monica Dolan, Paul Hilton, Lyndsey Marshal, Rochelle Rose, and Susie Trayling.
Innovative Productions and Classic Theatre
Following this, Felix Barrett of Punchdrunk fame will direct The Guilty (June 20 to August 15), a new play by Chloë Moss. Based on the Dutch film Den Skyldige and its Jake Gyllenhaal-starring US remake, this production stars Russell Tovey as a police officer with a troubled past who receives a shocking 999 call. Audiences can expect Barrett's signature style, filled with technological innovation and immersive storytelling.
For the summer, the Donmar presents a revival of legendary Irish playwright Brian Friel's Chekhov adaptation, A Month in the Country (August 22 to October 2). Directed by the acclaimed Lyndsey Turner, this version of the Russian playwright's Platanov follows Natalya Petrovna, the wife of a wealthy landowner, whose life is thrown into disarray by the arrival of a penniless but charismatic young tutor.
Contemporary Drama and Personal Stories
The season concludes with actor-writer Danny Lee Wynter's Ilford Boy (October 10 to November 28), a poignant drama about growing up mixed race in 1990s east London. The play explores how teenager Ted's life is transformed by the arrival of the proudly unconventional Patrick. Donmar artistic director Timothy Sheader will direct this deeply personal and timely production.
Casting for A Month in the Country and Ilford Boy will be announced at a later date. The entire 2026 season will go on public sale on February 6, offering theatre enthusiasts an opportunity to secure tickets for what promises to be another standout year at one of London's most respected theatrical institutions.
