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The Motive and the Cue Tickets

A glimpse behind the scenes at the complicated relationship between art and celebrity.

This production is suitable for ages 12+

Performance dates

9 December 2023 - 23 March 2024

Run time: 2 hours and 40 mins including interval

Includes interval

4.7

85 reviews

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Sam Mendes directs a startling new play on the making of Burton and Gielgud’s Hamlet.

Why would the most famous movie star in the world choose to do a play which everyone already knows? And what lures us back to the same plays, year after year?

Richard Burton, newly married to Elizabeth Taylor, is to play the title role in an experimental new production of Hamlet under John Gielgud’s exacting direction.

But as rehearsals progress, two ages of theatre collide and the collaboration between actor and director soon threatens to unravel.

This fierce and funny new play by Jack Thorne offers a glimpse into the politics of a rehearsal room and the relationship between art and celebrity.

Sam Mendes directs Johnny Flynn as Burton, Mark Gatiss as Gielgud and Tuppence Middleton as Taylor.

Content

This production contains strong language and adult themes, with some bright lighting.

Group Pricing

Special pricing for groups of 10 or moreCheck our group prices and save!

Recent Reviews

4.7
85 reviews

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