‘Summer is Coming!’: Game of Thrones Prequel to Premiere at the Royal Shakespeare Company

A new stage adaptation of George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones is set to premiere this summer at the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) in Stratford-upon-Avon, UK. Game of Thrones: The Mad King will explore the events leading up to Robert’s Rebellion, focusing on the reign of Aerys II Targaryen, often referred to as the “Mad King.”

A Long-Awaited Production

The play, adapted by Duncan Macmillan and directed by Dominic Cooke, has been in development since 2021 The Guardian. While a Broadway production was previously considered, the production has found its home with the RSC, a decision lauded by Martin himself.

Martin’s Vision for the Stage

George R.R. Martin expressed his enthusiasm for the RSC production, noting the company’s expertise in staging historical dramas and battles, drawing parallels to Shakespeare’s own challenges in bringing such scenes to life The Guardian. He stated that the RSC was the “obvious choice” given Shakespeare’s enduring influence on his writing.

The Story of the Mad King

Game of Thrones: The Mad King will delve into the tumultuous events surrounding the Great Tourney at Harrenhal, a pivotal moment in the history of Westeros. The play will depict a lavish banquet and jousting tournament, while hinting at the growing dissent and treasonous plots brewing against Aerys II Targaryen Variety. Key houses – Targaryen, Stark, Lannister, Baratheon, and Martell – will be featured in the production.

Creative Team and Production Details

Duncan Macmillan’s adaptation and Dominic Cooke’s direction aim to capture the scale and thematic depth of Martin’s work, drawing inspiration from Shakespearean histories and tragedies Westeros.org. Tamara Harvey and Daniel Evans, the RSC’s co-artistic directors, highlighted the play’s exploration of authority and identity through the lens of young characters.

Ticket Information

Priority booking for Game of Thrones: The Mad King begins on April 14, 2026, with public booking to be announced in April 2026 Westeros.org. Interested audiences can visit rsc.org.uk/join to become RSC members for early access.

A New Chapter for Westeros

This production marks a significant expansion of the Game of Thrones universe, bringing the epic saga to the stage for the first time. Full details of the RSC’s upcoming season will be announced on February 26, 2026 Westeros.org.