The footsteps of a monumental production that will sweep through the spring months can be heard at London’s cultural heart, South Bank. The National Theatre is preparing a fierce class confrontation with Maxim Gorky’s immortal work Summerfolk.
This production holds up a harsh mirror from the warm summer days of 1905 Russia to today’s world of denial and privilege. Here is everything you need to know about this magnificent theatrical event:
The Calm Before the Storm: The World of the Play
Summerfolk tells the story of Russia’s elite class spending an idyllic holiday in the countryside filled with champagne and flirtation. While the world outside is changing, this privileged minority inside thinks of nothing beyond swimming and raising toasts. Yet for the central character Varvara, this pastoral idyll is built on borrowed time. As the dark clouds gathering on the horizon (the approaching footsteps of the 1905 Revolution) draw closer every second, how much longer can this party last?
Creative Team and New Adaptation
- Director: Robert Hastie, who achieved great success with Standing at the Sky’s Edge, brings this incisive class portrait to the vast stage of the Olivier Theatre.
- Adaptation: The play meets the audience in a fresh, razor-sharp adaptation for 2026, written by Nina Raine (Consent) and Moses Raine.
- Design: Costumes and sets signed by Peter McKintosh blend the aesthetics of the period with a modern perspective.
Visit Plan and Ticket Information
The play will be staged at the National Theatre’s grandest venue, the Olivier Theatre.
Dates: 6 March – 29 April 2026
Ticket Prices: £20 to £89. (Previews from 6–11 March are more affordable at £20–£64.)
Special for Young People: If you are aged 16–25 (or know someone who is), you can grab tickets for just £5 or £10 through the NT’s legendary discount scheme!
Duration: Expected to run approximately 2 hours (including interval).
Accessibility and Special Performances
As always, the National Theatre offers an inclusive programme:
- Captioned Performances: 28 March, 8 April, 22 April
- BSL (British Sign Language) Interpreted: 16 April, 28 April
- Audio Described: 4 April, 20 April
- Relaxed Performance: 31 March (especially for audiences sensitive to noise or seeking a more flexible environment)
A Little Recommendation
If you’ll be in London, following an evening stroll along the river at South Bank with this play in the magnificent acoustics of the Olivier Theatre could become one of 2026’s most unforgettable memories. Since ticket prices can change according to demand, it’s worth acting early.
