The Royal Shakespeare Company has announced the world premiere stage production of a new Game of Thrones spin-off – Game of Thrones: The Mad King.
Game of Thrones: The Mad King is a new play based on the novels by George R. R. Martin, the best-selling author behind the Game of Thrones novels and TV franchise.
Our quick take: The RSC has scored a huge coup in securing the first stage adaptation of Game of Thrones, in what could potentially become a whole play cycle. Already Shakespearean in its themes and tone, the RSC is an inspired choice by George R. R. Martin to take his Game of Thrones story to audiences in Stratford-upon-Avon, and no doubt around the world.
The new play will be adapted by award-winner Duncan Macmillan (People, Places and Things), and directed by new Almeida Theatre artistic director Dominic Cooke (Good, Follies, The Hollow Crown).
Game of Thrones: The Mad King is premiering at the RSC’s Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon this summer 2026, with exact dates to be confirmed.
“For my work to now be adapted for the stage is something I did not expect but welcome with great enthusiasm and excitement. Theatre offers something unique. A place for mine and the audience’s imagination to meet and hopefully create something magical. For me, the RSC was the obvious choice when thinking about putting a Game of Thrones story on the stage.” – Executive Producer and creator George R. R. Martin
The Game of Thrones stage show promises to be a sweeping new epic from the world of George R. R. Martin, that spans the final years before the events of the novels.
The drama will feature a legendary chapter of Westerosi history, and characters from the houses of Targaryen, Stark, Lannister, Baratheon and Martell.
“George’s storytelling is Shakespearean in its scale and its themes – dynastic struggle, ambition, rebellion, madness, prophecy, ill-fated love…. It will be thrilling for us to share this new play with audiences, both those that know and love George’s books and HBO’s series, but also audiences who know nothing and want to come and experience something both beautifully intimate and truly epic.” – Adaptor Duncan Macmillan and director Dominic Cooke
This prequel takes place over a decade before the events of Game of Thrones, where a long winter has started to thaw and, for the first time in years, all the great houses come together for a tournament – destined to be the greatest of the age. It feels like a new dawn, full of hope and opportunity. But tournaments always have a darker purpose….
Further details on dates and ticketing will be announced soon.
There are currently no details about whether the play will transfer to the West End.
Game of Thrones: The Mad King is co-produced with Simon Painter, Tim Lawson, Mark Manuel, Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures, HBO and Sir Leonard Blavatnik and Danny Cohen for Access Entertainment.
More about Game of Thrones: The Mad King
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