‘Game of Thrones’ heads to the stage as ‘The Mad King’ sets dramatic summer premiere
A new chapter of the Game of Thrones universe is heading to the stage, with the Royal Shakespeare Company confirming premiere dates and the creative team behind the upcoming theatrical production Game of Thrones: The Mad King. The play will debut at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford upon Avon, England, running from July 20 through September 5.
The production draws its inspiration from the fantasy world created by author George R. R. Martin and focuses on events that take place before the timeline depicted in the acclaimed television series Game of Thrones. The stage adaptation explores the turbulent final years leading up to the events that shaped the political chaos of Westeros.
The script has been adapted by playwright Duncan Macmillan, while acclaimed theatre director Dominic Cooke will lead the production. According to organisers, the project aims to transform the Royal Shakespeare Theatre into an immersive environment where audiences are placed close to the drama unfolding on stage.
Producers describe the show as a sweeping theatrical epic that brings one of Westeros’ most legendary historical chapters to life. The story focuses on the reign of the infamous Mad King, a pivotal figure whose instability and decisions would eventually lead to the rebellion that reshaped the Seven Kingdoms.
The Royal Shakespeare Company is also experimenting with a new staging configuration for the theatre, placing audiences closer to the performers to heighten the sense of political tension and spectacle that defines the story. This immersive design is expected to bring the scale of the fantasy world into a more intimate theatrical setting.
A large creative team has been assembled to realise the production. Set design will be handled by Chloe Lamford, while Georgia McGuinness will oversee costumes. Lighting design comes from Jon Clark, with composer Will Stuart creating the musical score and Tom Gibbons responsible for sound design.
Movement and puppetry are being developed by Nick Barnes and Finn Caldwell of Lume, while casting duties are overseen by Amy Ball. Additional contributors include dialect coach Hazel Holder, voice specialist Jeannette Nelson and associate director Emily Raymond.
The play is being co produced by theatre producers Simon Painter, Tim Lawson and Mark Manuel alongside Warner Bros Theatre Ventures on behalf of HBO and Access Entertainment. Martin also serves as an executive producer on the project.