The Fifth Step, Mrs Warren’s Profession and Hamlet to be shown in cinemas

National Theatre Live has announced a new slate of broadcasts to cinemas worldwide, featuring a mix of revivals and new writing from both the National Theatre and the West End.

David Ireland’s The Fifth Step, directed by Finn den Hertog, will screen from 27 November. Captured during its West End run at @sohoplace (where it received a solid WhatsOnStage review), the production stars Jack Lowden and Martin Freeman as two men whose relationship is tested through the lens of Alcoholics Anonymous. Originally mounted by the National Theatre of Scotland in 2024, the play is presented in cinemas by Neal Street Productions, Playful Productions and National Theatre of Scotland in association with Nica Burns.

From 23 October, Mrs Warren’s Profession by Bernard Shaw will be available in cinemas. The production stars Imelda Staunton and Bessie Carter as mother and daughter, filmed live from the West End. Directed by Dominic Cooke, it is presented by Sonia Friedman Productions.

In 2026, Hamlet will be broadcast from the National Theatre, with Hiran Abeysekera in the title role. Directed by Robert Hastie, this will be the first production from the National Theatre to be broadcast under new director and co-chief executive Indhu Rubasingham’s leadership. Screenings begin from 26 January.

Previously announced Inter Alia, starring Rosamund Pike, will be shown live from the Lyttelton stage on 4 September with international screenings to follow from 25 September.