Game of Thrones: The Mad King – New Stage Play Announced by Royal Shakespeare Company

A new stage adaptation of George R.R. Martin’s Song of Ice and Fire series, the world upon which Game of Thrones is based, is headed to the United Kingdom. The Royal Shakespeare Company will produce Game of Thrones: The Mad King, a “sweeping new stage epic” focusing on events preceding the original story.

A Return to Westeros – On Stage

The play will center on the reign of Aerys II Targaryen, known as the Mad King, and the events leading up to Robert’s Rebellion. The narrative unfolds at Harrenhal, where a jousting tournament is planned, but beneath the surface, a plot to overthrow the king is brewing. Family, prophecy, and the line of succession will be central themes.

Did You Know? Robert Baratheon led the charge against Aerys II Targaryen, and Jaime Lannister ultimately struck the Mad King down, earning the title “Kingslayer.”

A Long-Awaited Production

This isn’t the first attempt to bring a Game of Thrones stage play to life. A Broadway production focusing on the same story was announced in 2021, but ultimately did not come to fruition. The current Royal Shakespeare Company production shares the same writer, Duncan Macmillan, and director, Dominic Cooke.

George R.R. Martin himself expressed enthusiasm for the adaptation, noting that theatre offers a unique space for imagination to meet that of the audience. He also highlighted the historical resonance of the Royal Shakespeare Company, drawing parallels between the challenges of staging battles in Shakespeare’s plays and those presented by Game of Thrones.

Expert Insight: The choice of the Royal Shakespeare Company suggests a focus on the political intrigue and character dynamics inherent in Martin’s work, rather than a spectacle-driven adaptation. The RSC’s expertise in staging historical dramas and tragedies aligns well with the themes of rebellion and power struggles central to the Mad King’s story.

What’s Next?

Priority tickets for Game of Thrones: The Mad King go on sale April 14, with the premiere scheduled for later this year in Stratford-on-Avon. , depending on the success of this production, further adaptations of Martin’s work could follow. A Broadway-style musical adaptation, as previously considered, could also be revisited in the future, though it appears less likely given the current direction. The play could also inspire renewed interest in the Song of Ice and Fire novels themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was the Mad King?

Aerys II Targaryen, known as the Mad King, was the ruler of Westeros whose chaotic reign led to Robert’s Rebellion. His actions created unease and dissent among his inner circle.

Where will the play be performed?

Game of Thrones: The Mad King will premiere in Stratford-on-Avon, UK, at the Royal Shakespeare Company’s theatre.

Who wrote the script for the play?

The play is scripted by Duncan Macmillan, who also wrote Every Brilliant Thing.

What aspects of the Game of Thrones universe are you most hoping to see brought to life on stage?