Set in the quiet world of 1950s Oxford, Shadowlands follows Oxford don and author C. S. Lewis (Hugh Bonneville) as he opens his heart to a surprising and transformative romance with Gresham, a spirited poet whose wit and honesty challenge his long-held beliefs.

As their friendship blossoms into love, Lewis must confront the very ideas about pain and faith he has written about for years. When Joy is diagnosed with a terminal illness, their bond is tested in ways neither could have imagined. A tender and philosophical exploration of how love can illuminate even life’s darkest moments, Shadowlands is a timeless story that continues to move audiences around the world.

It’s worth the applause

★★★★ "Bonneville is loveably bashful" - Daily Mail

★★★★ "Bonneville dazzles as CS Lewis in divine revival"- Guardian

★★★★ "A quietly mighty play... White beautifully captures Gresham" Evening Standard

Hugh Bonneville won three Screen Actors Guild Awards for his portrayal of the Earl of Grantham in Downton Abbey. He has also been nominated for two Primetime Emmys, a Golden Globe, and four BAFTAs.  

Shadowlands won Best Play at the Evening Standard Awards in 1990.

Shadowlands cast

C.S. Lewis - Hugh Bonneville

Shadowlands creatives

Writer - William Nicholson

Director - Rachel Kavanaugh

The producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist at any performance, as this is subject to a variety of factors including illness, holidays, or events beyond the producers’ control. No refunds or exchanges will be offered as a result of an artist’s unavailability to perform at any performance.