Name: A Little Life - Harold Pinter Theatre
Start: 2023-03-25
End: 2023-06-18
Location: Harold Pinter Theatre

London

London Nav Links [NEW]

More shows

WL UK Nav

[boxoffice] Desktop Logo

Box Office

BoxOffice favicon

WL Terms

Terms and conditions

WL Privacy policy

Privacy policy

UK WL Musicals

Musicals

UK WL Plays

Plays

UK WL Family Theatre

Family

UK WL Deals & Special Offers

Special Offers

UK WL All Shows

All Shows

WL - All Attraction - LON

All Attractions

WL UK Info Links

INFO

Help and Support

BO Help and Support

HELP

Boxoffice footer links

ALL - PDP - Short description - Template

BO/GS - PDP - Experience - Running time - Template

BO/GS - PDP - Experience - Venue - Template

BO/GS - PDP - Entry price - Template

BO/GS - PDP - Age recommendation - Template

BO/GS - PDP - Tickets - Template

Buy tickets for [Product Name] in [City]. [Sales Message]

[Product Name] Tickets | Box Office

BO/GS - PDP - Show - Running time - Template

BO/GS - PDP - Show - Venue - Template

Buy tickets for [Product Name], [Venue]. [Sales Message]

Find out about [Headline Title] and book official tickets to your next event with Box Office.

[Headline Title] | Book Tickets | Box Office

Owned

UK WL Ballet & Opera

Ballet & Opera

WL Nav with Ballet & Opera

GWR Button Logo 01

GWR Nav Link to GWR site

Buy train tickets

WL Nav - GWR

WL Nav - The Times

WL Nav - Attractions Included

null

A Little Life - LON - Box Office

ALL - LON - Header image

Explore West End shows, book last minute theatre tickets, and more

Discover London

London All Shows Image

Latest London Insider Posts

London Tile Image

London musicals

London plays

TT - Deals & Special Offers 

Offers

London family

London access

Rush & Lottery

More

Venues in London

A Little Life - Harold Pinter Theatre

480 x 720

7553 20 ALL Digital TT 1080x1080

A Little Life - Harold Pinter - Hero

A Little Life - Harold Pinter - LON Product Media

A Little Life - LON - Prod 1

A Little Life - LON - Prod 2

A Little Life - LON - Prod 3

A Little Life - LON - Prod 4

Buy tickets for A Little Life - Harold Pinter Theatre at the Harold Pinter Theatre in London. Find official theatre tickets to Plays with Box Office.

A Little Life - Harold Pinter Theatre Tickets | Box Office

Born in London in 1985, James Norton is a BAFTA-nominated actor, best known for television shows such as *Happy Valley* and *Grantchester*. Norton will star in the West End premiere of [*A Little Life*](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/show/27090-a-little-life) at the [Harold Pinter Theatre](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/theatres/harold-pinter-theatre) in spring 2023. 

While Norton studied at the University of Cambridge, he took part in many theatre productions. He notably played Posthumus in a Trevor Nunn-directed production of *Cymbeline* for The Marlowe Society. Notable alumni include Stephen Fry, Ian McKellen, Tom Hiddleston, and Emma Corrin. Following his theology degree, Norton then enrolled at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. 

In 2010, Norton made his London debut in Laura Wade’s *Posh* at the Royal Court, playing the role of Miles Richards. He then played Henry in *That Face* at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre.

The following year, Norton played Captain Stanhope in R. C. Sheriff's World War One play, *Journey’s End*. After a three-month long UK tour, *Journey's End* took over the Duke of York’s Theatre in summer 2011. Shortly after, he reunited with Trevor Nunn for *The Lion in Winter* at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. Norton also played Zack in *Belleville* at the Donmar Warehouse in 2017. 

In recent years, he’s best known for his television roles. He played villain Tommy Lee Royce in *Happy Valley*, picking up a BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Reversely, he then played a crime solving vicar for four series of *Grantchester* on ITV. In 2018, Norton played Alex Godman, the son of a Russian mafia boss escaping a life of organised crime, in *McMafia*.

In 2023, Norton will play Jude in the stage adaptation of Hanya Yanagihara's *A Little Life*. Ivo van Hove directs Norton, as well as Luke Thompson, Omari Douglas, and Zach Wyatt.

James Norton - LON

A Little Life - Harold Pinter - LON

“It’s not worth making art at all if the only thing you want is for everyone to like it,” a program note from author Hanya Yanagihara reads in the program for *A Little Life*, the almost-four-hour emotional marathon of a show based on her best-selling novel, playing at the Harold Pinter Theatre. However, love it or hate it, no one will forget *A Little Life*, and that’s what makes a great theatrical experience.

Just like with her widely acclaimed book, the show will also have its critics, and even the diehard fans (of which there are many) will have to come to terms with their connection to the material, which largely centers on graphic sexual trauma, self-harm, and child abuse. 

It’s not an easy show to recommend, because it’s not an easy show to watch, as master director Ivo van Hove has taken the seemingly neverending climactic moments of the over 700-page book and translated them into a series of connected vignettes, each subsequently more difficult to witness than the last, mimicking Yanagihara’s semi-nonlinear timeline which deals in character studies and flashbacks. 

Van Hove has conceived the production, alongside Yanagihara and co-adaptor Koen Tachelet, with fervent loyalty to the story about four college friends who find their New York City lives veering off in different directions as they mine the depths of their friend Jude’s unknowable past. While the book has pages to breathe between critical scenes, van Hove’s production paces quickly through the crucial moments, giving less time to develop character relationships and intimacies and focusing squarely on the underlying trauma of it all. 

Some passages are lifted verbatim from the novel, an effective device, particularly as monologues. The newly minted Olivier winner Zubin Varla is compelling in these moments as Harold, Jude’s professor-turned-father, and brings Yanagihara’s text about parenthood and love to soaring life. These character explorations and reflections are where the production reaches out and grabs the audience by the heart and doesn’t let go. 

The tight-knit ensemble, led by the captivating James Norton, keeps the audience engaged as the unthinkable events unfold. Norton has the hardest job among them, anchoring the story as Jude St. Francis, an abandoned orphan whose trauma-filled past still haunts him as he navigates an outwardly successful adulthood. Norton’s performance threads the needle between Jude’s joy and sorrow, and he pours himself into the immensely physical and psychological aspects of the role, giving his absolute all to the performance.  

Luke Thompson plays the beating heart of the piece: Jude’s best friend and confidant Willem. Thompson must usher the character from apathetic party boy to deeply intellectual and empathetic partner, and he is present and rooted in the show’s message of love throughout. 

Omari Douglas is doing some career-best work as JB, the tortured artist whose ego inhibits him at times, while Zach Thompson rounds out the foursome in the small-yet-memorable role, the architect Malcom. Elliot Cowan finds a way to weave charisma with horror in the difficult assignment of playing a trifecta of Jude’s abusers, and Emilio Doorgasingh brings a deep heart to Jude’s loyal doctor Andy. 

One of the van Hove’s main interpretations of the novel is in how he incorporates Ana, the social worker who guides Jude in a time of crisis. Ana comes in and goes from Jude’s life very quickly, but in the production, she serves as a sort of narrator and empathetic guide for Jude and the audience through the difficult moments. Nathalie Armin’s performance augments the poetic role. 

The entire production feels immersive throughout the space with audience members sitting onstage, Jan Versweyveld’s moody lighting and looming video projections of NYC streets, and Eric Sleichim’s haunting sound design and score, played by a quartet of talented string players. 

However, what comes out of *A Little Life* is not the excessive trauma and graphic abuse, but rather, how amid these terrors, the characters remain steadfast in their dedication to one another, searching for common ground and belonging even while struggling with trust and intimacy. Their friendship at all costs grounds the story and the experience. We should all be so lucky to find their loyalty and love. 

*A Little Life is playing at the Harold Pinter Theatre through 18 June before moving to the Savoy Theatre on 4 July through 5 August. [Book A Little Life West End tickets at the Harold Pinter Theatre](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/show/27090-a-little-life). [Book A Little Life tickets at the Savoy Theatre.](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/show/28044-a-little-life-savoy)*

‘A Little Life’ West End review - An emotional, unforgettable show

Read our four-star review of Ivo van Hove’s crushing and poignant adaptation of Hanya Yanagihara’s best-selling novel, starring James Norton and Luke Thompson. 

The Harold Pinter Theatre, established and adorned with Victorian architecture in 1881, is one of the most notable theatre venues in the heart of London. Originally known as the Royal Comedy Theatre, it later adopted the name of 'Harold Pinter', honouring the famous playwright. The theatre is situated conveniently in the centre of the bustling West End, an ideal location for tourists and locals alike. The interior is decorated with an impressive array of original features aligned with its historical era of inception, creating an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere for theatre-goers. The theatre has an audience capacity of 796 people across four levels, with the seats divided into Stalls, Dress Circle, Royal Circle and Balcony. Over time, it has been home to many outstanding performances, including shows like 'The Homecoming', 'Moonlight', and 'Betrayal'. The Harold Pinter Theatre undoubtedly offers a memorable and culturally enriching experience for all those who visit.

### How to Get to the Venue 

Harold Pinter Theatre is accessible and well-connected, located at Panton Street in the City of Westminster. The closest Underground stations are Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square, both within a short 5-minute walk. Numerous buses service the area regularly, making it straightforward to reach using public transport. For those driving, the MasterPark at Whitcomb Street and NCP at Denman Street are the nearest parking options.

Harold Pinter Theatre - LON

Harold Pinter Theatre

The Harold Pinter Theatre is a historic venue in London's West End, known for hosting many notable performances. Convenient and easily accessible by public transit.

A Little Life - Savoy - LON

A Little Life - Savoy Theatre

A Little Life - Savoy - LON Product Media

London's Savoy Theatre is one of the most renowned theatre venues in the heart of the city. This cherished venue exhibits a rich history that dates back to 1881. The Savoy indulges its patrons with a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, ballet, and concerts. The attractive architecture and interior details give the attendees a sense of a grand theatrical experience. The Savoy Theatre prides itself on having introduced electric lights to the theatre world. Remarkable luminaries such as Gilbert and Sullivan have graced its stage. The theatre has a seating capacity of 1,158, split between the Stalls, Dress Circle, and Upper Circle. Dedicated to providing full accessibility, the venue offers services for those with mobility, hearing, and visual impairments.

## How to get to the Savoy Theatre 
The Savoy Theatre is centrally located in London and is easily accessible by both public and private transport. The theatre is easily reachable by bus, tube, and rail services. The nearest tube stations are Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern lines), Embankment (District, Circle, Bakerloo, and Northern lines), and Covent Garden (Piccadilly line). For those who prefer buses, services 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 87, 91, 139, and 176 stop near the theatre. For patrons driving private vehicles, the closest Q-Park car park is available at the nearby Chinatown. The theatre also participates in the Q-Park Theatreland Scheme, offering a 50% discount on parking.

## Additional Information 

Venue opens 1hr 30min before showtime.

Please arrive with plenty of time, latecomers will be admitted at a suitable point, which may be the interval.

Savoy Theatre - LON

Savoy Theatre

The Savoy Theatre is a historic London venue offering diverse performances. It's centrally accessible by tube, bus, and car.

James Norton - LON - 124px

Born in Southampton in 1988, Luke Thompson is best known for playing Benedict Bridgerton in the *Bridgerton* television series. The West End actor will star in *A Little Life* at the [Harold Pinter Theatre](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/theatres/harold-pinter-theatre).

After growing up in France, Thompson took a year out of education to train with the Year Out Drama Company. The Stratford-upon-Avon-based group focus on creating ensemble work.

After a year training, Thompson then attended the University of Bristol, graduating with an English and Drama degree. He then graduated from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in 2013, studying alongside classmate [Jessie Buckley](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/stars-on-stage/jessie-buckley).

Thompson made his London debut in *A Midsummer Night’s Dream* at Shakespeare’s Globe and quickly made an impression in the world — he earned an Evening Standard Award nomination for Best Newcomer. The same year, he also starred in *Blue Stockings* at the same theatre.

His affinity to Shakespeare's Globe continued: he played Mark Antony in *Julius Caesar* in 2014, and Ithocles in *The Broken Heart* at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse in 2015. 

The Almeida Theatre became Thompson's next London theatre: he starred as Orestes in Robert Icke's *Oresteia* in 2015 and as Laertes in the Andrew Scott-led *Hamlet* in 2017. For the latter, he eventually reprised the role in the West End transfer.

He continued the Shakespeare trend by playing Edgar in the Ian McKellen-led *King Lear* at the Duke of York’s Theatre in 2018. Coincidentally, his *Bridgerton* co-star, [Jonathan Bailey](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/stars-on-stage/jonathan-bailey), played Edgar at Chichester Festival Theatre that same year. Talk about brotherly love!

Away from the stage, Thompson is best known for playing Benedict, the second eldest Bridgerton sibling, in the *Bridgerton* Netflix series. Many [West End actors feature in *Bridgerton*](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/theatre-news/news/bridgerton-stars-who-got-their-start-in-west-end-theatre), including Golda Rosheuvel, Nicola Coughlan, and Regé-Jean Page. Thompson also features in Christopher Nolan's *Dunkirk* film.

In 2023, Norton will play Willem in the stage adaptation of Hanya Yanagihara's *A Little Life*. Ivo van Hove directs Thompson, as well as [James Norton](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/stars-on-stage/james-norton), Omari Douglas, and Zach Wyatt.

Luke Thompson - LON

King Lear - LON [24522] - DNU

King Lear

King Lear - LON [24522] Product Media

Kenneth Branagh will direct and play the title role for 50 performances only at Wyndham’s Theatre from 21 October.

Named after its founder and famed actor-manager Charles Wyndham, the **Wyndham's Theatre** is a classic London West End theatre that stands on Charing Cross Road in the City of Westminster. Opened in 1899, the theatre was designed by W G R Sprague, an architect who was also responsible for many other West End theatres. It has a strong reputation for high-quality drama, which is part of its charm and attractiveness. The exterior contains a beautiful portico in the classical style, while the interior is adorned with luxurious ornate plasterwork. Over its history, Wyndham's Theatre has hosted a wide variety of productions, including 'God of Carnage', 'Art', and 'Donkeys' Years'.

**Getting to the Wyndham's Theatre:**

Wyndham's Theatre is easily accessible by multiple modes of transport. The closest Underground station, Leicester Square, is just a two-minute walk away, offering connections via the Northern and Piccadilly lines. Several bus stop directly outside the theatre, including routes 24, 29 and 176. Limited on-street paid parking is available. National car park at St Martin’s Lane Hotel offers a discount to theatre patrons, but the venue encourages sustainable transport options where possible.

Wyndham's Theatre - LON

Wyndham's Theatre

Wyndham's Theatre, established in 1899, is a classic West End venue known for high-quality drama. It's easily accessible via public transport.

Hamlet - HPT 2017 [4518]

Hamlet - HPT 2017

Hamlet - HPT 2017 [4518] Product Media

Luke Thompson - LON - 124px

Harold Pinter LON

Harold Pinter Theatre - TodayTix

The Harold Pinter Theatre opened on 15 Oct. 1881 as a comic opera house. Its name on opening was the Royal Comedy Theatre, though its ‘Royal’ epithet was dropped in 1884.

The Comedy Theatre helped establish the New Watergate Club in 1956, a society which helped overturn the stage censorship enforced by the Lord Chamberlain’s Office. The formation of the Club meant that the plays banned by the Government could be performed at this venue as it was now being run as a private club rather than a commercial entity. Notable plays in this category include Arthur Miller’s *A View from the Bridge* and Tennessee Williams’ *Cat On A Hot Tin Roof*. The censorship was finally overturned in 1968. 

Harold Pinter's works were often performed here: *The Homecoming*, *The Caretaker*, *Moonlight*, *No-Man’s Land* and *The Hothouse* all enjoyed successful runs, and Pinter directed a production of *The Old Masters* here in 2004. After his death, it was thought fitting to bestow the honour of naming a theatre after him, and the name was officially changed on 13 Oct. 2011 to the Harold Pinter Theatre. The Ambassador Theatre Group own the Harold Pinter Theatre.

## Harold Pinter Theatre Seating Information

The auditorium has four levels – Stalls, Dress Circle, Royal Circle and Balcony. The top three levels are a horseshoe shape around the stalls.

The Stalls is a single block of seats, and offers good sightlines. Some seats are impaired by supportive pillars and the overhang of the Dress Circle.

The Dress Circle doesn’t offer a great raking in the seating, but the view is not affected by the overhang of the Royal Circle. 

The Royal Circle seats curve towards the stage more noticeably than the Dress Circle.

The Balcony feels very high in this theatre.

Harold Pinter Theatre - London Theatre

Opened in 1881 as the Royal Comedy Theatre, it became the Harold Pinter Theatre in 2011. It features four seating levels and hosted notable uncensored plays.

HaroldPinter-SeatingMap-700 x1284 px

A Little Life - Harold Pinter Theatre Tickets

About A Little Life - Harold Pinter Theatre

Run time

Venue

Categories

Age

Start date

End date

Stars on stage

James Norton

Luke Thompson

A Little Life - Harold Pinter Theatre cast and creative team

Venue

Harold Pinter Theatre

Directions

Tickets