Oedipus

See a modern take of the timeless Greek tragedy, Oedipus, reimagined into a political thriller by the visionary director Robert Icke. Get tickets for Oedipus, playing in the West End for a strictly limited run at Wyndham's Theatre.

Following acclaimed performances in Amsterdam and Edinburgh, this innovative production makes its much-anticipated debut on the West End stage, featuring Olivier Award winners Mark Strong and Lesley Manville.

What is the play Oedipus about?

The original story, written by Sophocles, portrays King Oedipus, who unknowingly fulfils a horrifying prophecy. Olivier-winning director Robert Icke reimagines the story with a modern take, setting the scene during election night. The drama unfolds on the eve of an election, where anticipation mounts within Oedipus' inner circle as victory seems assured. Beneath political triumph lies a chilling revelation, threatening to unravel everything Oedipus holds dear.

As tensions escalate and relationships are tested, the line between ambition and destiny blurs, unveiling the consequences of holding power and keeping dark secrets. As the truth comes out, the consequences of an ancient prophecy unfold in a series of disastrous events.

The first adaptation by Robert Icke of Sophocles’ story, Oedipus, which premiered in Amsterdam back in 2018 and in Edinburgh the following year, was met with roaring success. The play has been praised for its innovative storytelling, bringing a Greek classic into the 21st century with an outstanding final scene.

Oedipus Wyndham’s Theatre cast

Multi-award-winning actor Mark Strong stars as Oedipus, previously acclaimed for his role in A View From The Bridge on London’s West End and known for his performances in films such as Kingsman. Olivier award-winning actress Lesley Manville takes to the stage as Jocasta, Oedipus's mother, having previously starred in Long Day's Journey Into Night and Ghosts. Recently, she portrayed Princess Margaret in the sensational Netflix series The Crown.

How to get tickets for Oedipus

Book tickets for Oedipus online with Visit London. View a seating plan to pick where to sit and watch this outstanding play. Ticket prices can be seen when viewing the seating map. 

Previous productions of the same play sold out in both Amsterdam and Edinburgh. Make sure to secure your tickets in advance for this stellar theatre performance.

How long is Oedipus?

The exact running time is yet to be confirmed, but previous productions lasted approximately two hours. The play revolves around a clock counting down two hours to zero, though whether the clock accurately tracks time is yet to be determined.

It is recommended to arrive at the theatre at least 30 minutes in advance of the show starting. 

The show is booking up until January 2025.

At what time is Oedipus showing in the evening? 

Evening performances take place Mondays to Saturdays at 7.30pm.

Are there any matinees taking place?

Oedipus matinees are scheduled on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2.30pm.

Where is Oedipus showing in London?

Oedipus is set to perform for a strictly limited run from October 2024 till January 2025 at Wyndham’s Theatre, on Charing Cross Road close to Covent Garden.

How to get there:

• Tube – Leicester Square (Northern Line), Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line) and Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern Lines) are the closest tube stations, located a few minutes’ walk away from the theatre.
• Bus – Several bus routes stop near the theatre at Leicester Square (24, 29, 176, N5, N20, N29, N41 and N279).
• Cycling – Rent a Santander bike and head to St Martin’s Street in the West End where you will find a docking station.

Is there an age restriction?  

Recommended for ages 16 and over, this play contains references to buried trauma and murder. Viewer discretion is advised.

What other plays can I see on the London West End?

Experience Arthur Miller's A View From The Bridge, starring BAFTA Award-winner Dominic West, at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. Don't miss this powerful tale of passion and jealousy! Or discover Death of England, a gripping tale of a Black working-class man confronting his relationship with Britain, showing at Soho Place.