Power, integrity, and defiance. Few historical figures have embodied these themes as compellingly as Sir Thomas More. Now, in a major new production of Robert Bolt’s A Man for All Seasons, Martin Shaw takes on the legendary role, joined by a stellar cast at the Oxford Playhouse this February.
Award-winning director Jonathan Church helms this new adaptation of Bolt’s classic historical drama, produced by Theatre Royal Bath and Jonathan Church Theatre Productions. The play runs from Tuesday 18th to Saturday 22nd February and promises a gripping portrayal of one of the most pivotal figures in English history.
A Story of Conscience vs. Power
Sir Thomas More; scholar, ambassador, Lord Chancellor, and trusted confidant to King Henry VIII, is revered for his unwavering principles. When Henry demands a divorce from Catherine of Aragon to marry Anne Boleyn, More faces an impossible choice: to stand by his faith and defy the king or compromise his conscience and save his life.
What follows is a powerful exploration of loyalty, integrity, and the cost of defiance in the face of tyranny. The story, as relevant today as ever, resonates with contemporary debates on ethics, governance, and personal convictions.
A Star-Studded Cast
Leading the production is Martin Shaw (Judge John Deed, Inspector George Gently, The Professionals), taking on the formidable role of Sir Thomas More. Shaw is no stranger to the stage, having starred in acclaimed productions such as Hobson’s Choice, The Best Man, and Twelve Angry Men.
Opposite him, Gary Wilmot (Me & My Girl, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Wicked) plays The Common Man, a character who acts as a bridge between the audience and the unfolding drama, offering insight and wit throughout the play.
Other notable cast members include:
- Edward Bennett (Royal Shakespeare Company) as Thomas Cromwell
- Abigail Cruttenden (Not Going Out, Sharpe, Benidorm) as Alice More
- Nicholas Day (Minder, New Tricks, Goodnight Sweetheart) as Cardinal Wolsey
- Orlando James as King Henry VIII
- Sam Parks as Archbishop Thomas Cranmer
- Calum Finlay as Richard Rich
- Annie Kingsnorth as Margaret More
This outstanding ensemble cast brings Bolt’s powerful script to life, capturing the emotional and political stakes that defined one of the most dramatic moments in English history.
A Timeless Classic with Award-Winning Pedigree
Since its premiere in 1960, A Man for All Seasons has been regarded as one of the greatest historical dramas ever written. The play won six Tony Awards, including Best Play, and was later adapted into an Academy Award-winning film in 1966. Bolt, who also wrote Lawrence of Arabia and Doctor Zhivago, is celebrated for his masterful storytelling and ability to bring historical figures vividly to life.
This new production, under the direction of Jonathan Church (Singin’ in the Rain, An Ideal Husband, The Price), offers a fresh yet faithful interpretation of Bolt’s masterwork, ensuring an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Tickets & Booking Information
Performances run from Tuesday 18 to Saturday 22 February at Oxford Playhouse.
- Tickets start from £14
- Box Office: 01865 305305
- Online bookings: www.oxfordplayhouse.com
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see a legendary cast bring one of theatre’s most gripping dramas to life.
A Man for All Seasons UK Tour Dates & Booking Information
The production has a limited tour in 2025 including:
| Venue | Dates |
|---|---|
| Chichester Festival Theatre | 28 January – 1 February 2025 |
| Malvern Festival Theatre | 4 February – 8 February 2025 |
| Cheltenham Everyman Theatre | 11 February – 15 February 2025 |
| Oxford Playhouse Theatre | 18 February – 21 February 2025 |
| Guildford Yvonne Arnaud Theatre | 25 February – 1 March 2025 |
| Canterbury The Marlowe Theatre | 4 March – 8 March 2025 |
| London Richmond Theatre | 11 March – 15 March 2025 |
