RSC announces new shows in 2026 season, with Mark Gatiss, Helen Hunt and more

The Royal Shakespeare Company has announced its Spring 2026 season, with Kenneth Branagh returning to Stratford-upon-Avon for the first time in over three decades.

We’ve covered Branagh’s return (including one show alongside Helen Hunt), in a dedicated story here.

Mark Gatiss will also make his RSC debut, playing the title role in Bertolt Brecht’s The Resistible Rise of Arturo Uiin a version by Stephen Sharkey, directed by Seán Linnen. It runs in the Swan Theatre from 11 April to 30 May. The casting director is Christopher Worrall. 

Linnen explained the artistic impulses for the project, saying: “Cinematic in its scope, mischievous at its heart and with a chilling political bite, Stephen Sharkey’s explosive translation coupled with Mark’s dazzling energy and razor-sharp wit sets up this ‘gangster spectacle’ to be an exhilarating night in Stratford-upon-Avon.

“Since the dawn of democracy, theatre has played an essential role in our politics and Brecht knew that delivering thrilling entertainment alongside an invitation to see the world through different eyes is the key to winning hearts and changing minds. It’s an honour to follow in the footsteps of so many great artists that have made bold political work on the RSC’s stages throughout its rich history.”

In The Other Place, Martina Laird’s playwriting debut Driftwood, set in 1950s Caribbean, will premiere from 17 April to 30 May, directed by Justin Audibert, before transferring to the Kiln Theatre in London. The set and costume designer is Sadeysa Greenaway-Bailey, while casting is by Matthew Dewsbury with further names to be announced.

Rachel Bagshaw will direct a new family-focused co-production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream with the Unicorn Theatre, adapted by Robin Belfield, which plays in London from 21 March to 3 May before moving to Stratford from 19 June to 30 August.

Completing the programme for younger audiences, Ready Steady Colour’s Christmas Feast by A Line Art will run at The Other Place from 10 December 2025 to 3 January 2026.

These productions join previously announced titles including Cyrano de Bergerac, Macbeth, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, The Forsyte Saga, All Is But Fantasy, Henry V, and The BFG.

The RSC also confirmed that Matilda the Musical will continue its UK and Ireland tour, visiting Dublin, Glasgow, and Cardiff across 2025 to 2027.

Priority booking for members and supporters opens from Monday 22 September at 10am with public booking from Wednesday 8 October at 10am.