The Real Thing: Tom Stoppard's Classic Play in LondonFri, Jan 1, 2027 · £32See Tickets

MusicVerified listing: See Tickets

The Real Thing: Tom Stoppard's Classic Play in London

Jazz CafeFri, Jan 1, 2027 · 06:30 PM – 08:30 PM

Music

Overview

Overview

The Real Thing is scheduled for Friday, January 1, 2027 at Jazz Cafe. Check the official source before you go, as event times and venue details can change.

Read full details

Tom Stoppard's *The Real Thing* returns to London in 2027, offering audiences a sharp, witty exploration of love, art, and honesty. First performed in 1982, the play follows Henry, a playwright, and Annie, an actress and activist, as they navigate an affair that tests their beliefs about fidelity and authenticity. Stoppard weaves a play within a play, using layered performances to question what is real versus what is performed.

Attendees can expect a sophisticated evening of theatre, with Stoppard's trademark clever dialogue and emotional depth. The production features a cast of characters including Max, Charlotte, and the imprisoned soldier Brodie, whose cause drives much of the plot. The play's structure—shifting between scenes of domestic drama and theatrical performance—keeps the audience engaged and questioning.

This staging of *The Real Thing* is for fans of modern drama and anyone interested in Stoppard's most personal work. The play's enduring popularity stems from its universal themes and the way it balances intellectual rigor with genuine emotion.

📍 London⏱️ 2 hrs🎟️ Tickets from £32

Starting price is indicative — check the official source for current tickets.

Where to buy

Good to know

  • The play runs approximately 2 hours with one intermission.
  • Latecomers may not be admitted until a suitable break.
  • No photography or recording is permitted during the performance.

Frequently asked questions

What is the play about?

The play focuses on the relationship between Henry and Annie, an actress and member of a group fighting to free Brodie, a Scottish soldier imprisoned for burning a memorial wreath during a protest. It examines the nature of honesty and uses various constructs, including a play within a play, to explore the theme of reality versus appearance.

Who wrote the play?

The play was written by Tom Stoppard.

When was the play first performed?

The play was first performed in 1982.

More from The Real Thing

See every upcoming The Real Thing date — venues and tickets on one page.

All The Real Thing tour dates →

More events in London

More dates for this show

  • Thu, Nov 26, 2026
  • Sat, Jan 2, 2027

2026 guides

Planning around events? These guides collect 2026 calendars, festival clusters, and practical trip ideas so you can compare dates before you book.