Game of Thrones stage prequel opens to rave reviews at Shakespeare's home

The Royal Shakespeare Company has launched Game of Thrones: The Mad King, a stage prequel to George RR Martin's novels and the hit TV series, at its home in Stratford-upon-Avon. The production has drawn widespread critical praise for its ambitious stagecraft and theatrical execution.

The play is set approximately 15 years before the events of Martin's first book and explores backstory previously confined to the novels. It features a 36-strong cast portraying younger versions of familiar characters including Ned Stark, Jaime Lannister and Robert Baratheon, alongside figures central to the saga's origins such as Lyanna Stark, Prince Rhaegar Targaryen and the "mad king" Aerys II Targaryen. The production runs for three hours and 45 minutes.

Critics have largely embraced the adaptation. Whatsonstage awarded five stars, calling it "a triumph; a soaring, surging spectacle" and praising the direction and ensemble performance. The Guardian gave four stars, describing "an action-packed saga" with "spectacular stagecraft and plenty of modern resonance." The Telegraph also awarded four stars, calling it a "spellbinding spectacle." Metro and The Independent both gave four-star reviews, with The Independent noting the show features "thrillingly staged battles, gory deaths and, yes, dragons." The Times was more reserved, awarding three stars and suggesting the play "lacks pace, sex and gore."

Playwright Duncan Macmillan drew from Martin's texts to adapt the story for the stage, exploring events mentioned in the books including a tournament at Harrenhal and Robert's Rebellion. Martin was heavily involved in the production, with a representative attending rehearsals throughout and the author attending the opening night.

The RSC hopes the production will replicate the success of other fantasy stage adaptations. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and Stranger Things: The First Shadow have both enjoyed lengthy runs in London's West End and on Broadway, establishing a template for how literary franchises can transition to theatre.