King John Tickets
Opens 20th February
Shakespeare’s lesser-known masterwork, about the turbulent reign of an unpopular monarch, comes to this intimate, candlelit theatre.
King John in London
This winter, take a rare opportunity to see one of Shakespeare’s lesser-known historical dramas, as King John comes to the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse on Bankside for a limited run. Based on the true story of King John of England, this brutal play follows the monarch's turbulent reign as he takes the throne following the death of his beloved older brother, and is directed by Olivier nominee Jaz Woodcock-Stewart in her Globe debut. Secure your tickets today.
What Is Shakespeare's Play King John About?
When England’s revered monarch Richard the Lionheart dies, his younger brother John ascends to the throne. But not all believe that John is the rightful heir, and war is soon triggered between England and France. John must contend with an unexpected attack on his legitimacy while striving to escape the shadow of his beloved older brother - and he will go to any lengths to prove himself. As chaos reigns and power plays unfold across nations, John will stop at nothing to maintain his grasp on the crown.
The History of King John
King John is believed to have been written in the mid-1590s, but was not published until 1623 in the First Folio, with the first documented performance being marked in 1737. Based on the real-life history of John, King of England from 1199 until 1216, the play was incredibly popular during the Victorian Era due to its spectacle and pageantry, but is now one of Shakespeare’s lesser-performed historical works, and was last staged at the Globe over ten years ago in 2015.
The Creative Team of King John
King John is written by William Shakespeare.
Jaz Woodcock-Stewart directs in her Globe Theatre debut. Woodcock-Stewart is an Olivier-nominated director and writer. Her credits include Paradise Now! for the Bush Theatre, Grud for Hampstead Theatre, and The Glass Menagerie for Theater Basel.
Tickets for King John at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
Don’t miss this chance to see one of Shakespeare’s lesser-performed masterworks in the atmospheric candlelit stage of the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse this winter season. Corruption, bloodshed and chaos abound - who will win the crown? Book tickets for King John today.
Please note this production features violence, death (including child death) and depictions of war.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is King John playing in London?
King John is playing at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London, SE1 9DT.
What is the age recommendation for King John?
King John is tBC. Children under 16 must be accompanied by and sat next to an adult.
Can I buy tickets for King John at the box office?
Yes you can buy from the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse box office where you will pay the face value ticket price, sometimes with a small booking fee. Search on SeatPlan to get the best prices and deals in one search including discounts not available at the box office.
What is the refund / cancellation policy?
Tickets for King John are generally non-refundable and non-exchangeable.
SeatPlan works with multiple suppliers to find the best deal for you. Each supplier has their own refund and cancellation policy, which you can review on the payment page before you complete your purchase.
