White Rabbit Red Rabbit
What happens when no one knows what comes next?
Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour’s internationally acclaimed theatrical experiment White Rabbit Red Rabbit returns to London to celebrate its 15th anniversary, with a fresh lineup of celebrated actors, including David Tennant, Riz Ahmed, and Kathryn Hunter already confirmed, and more to be announced.
Since its premiere in 2011, White Rabbit Red Rabbit has been translated into more than 30 languages and performed over 3,000 times by some of the most celebrated names in theatre and film. Fifteen years on, its questions feel as urgent as ever and the play continues to captivate audiences around the world, inviting a different performer each night to encounter the script for the very first time in front of an audience.
Each performance begins with an envelope. Inside is a script the actor has never seen, that they must perform without rehearsal or a director. The play unfolds live, shaped entirely by how the author’s words compel that evening’s performer to respond. Each night brings a new energy as the actor steps into the unknown, creating a singular, unrepeatable theatrical experience.
Forbidden to leave his country at the time of writing, Soleimanpour distilled the experience of an entire generation into a work that is utterly original. At once playful, poignant, and unsettling, White Rabbit Red Rabbit asks questions about obedience, choice, and freedom of expression.
The result is a play that is a play that is as much about contemporary Iran as it is about power, complicity, and the fragile contract between performer and audience – anywhere in the world.
White Rabbit Red Rabbit features a different performer every night – each performance is genuinely unique. While we programme named artists in good faith – and cancellations are rare – in the event that circumstances dictate a change in performer, we are unable to offer refunds or exchanges. If a performance is cancelled in its entirety, a full refund will be offered.
Experience White Rabbit Red Rabbit in London at the Duchess Theatre, the globally acclaimed theatrical experiment by Nassim Soleimanpour. The show features a rotating star-studded cast including David Tennant, Riz Ahmed, Jodie Whittaker, David Harewood, Kathryn Hunter, Kunal Nayyar, Asim Chaudhry, Luke Thompson, Jo Joyner and Archie Madekwe. With no rehearsals, no director, an unseen script and a different performer each night, this play delivers a unique live event every performance. A defining choice for Things To Do In London and audiences searching for West End shows that are unique, intelligent and political. Secure London theatre tickets for this limited season theatrical event. Book White Rabbit Red Rabbit direct with Nimax Theatres via the Duchess Theatre Box Office for official tickets, no booking fees, and options for access customers.
David Harewood
Monday 8 June, 7.30pm
David Tennant
Monday 15 June, 7.30pm
Jo Joyner
Monday 22 June, 7.30pm
Asim Chaudhry
Monday 29 June, 7.30pm
Luke Thompson
Monday 6 July, 7.30pm
Jodie Whittaker
Monday 13 July, 7.30pm
Kathryn Hunter
Monday 20 July, 7.30pm
Kunal Nayyar
Monday 27 July, 7.30pm
Archie Madekwe
Monday 21 September, 7.30pm
Riz Ahmed
Monday 28 September, 7.30pm
Nassim Soleimanpour
Author
‘Engaging and audacious.’
The Stage
‘Catch this daring, one‑off theatrical experience while you can.’
LondonTheatre
Access performances at Nimax Theatres are now available to purchase online. You can purchase up to two tickets online for the below performances.
Access performances at Nimax Theatres are now available to purchase online. You can purchase up to two tickets online for the below performances.
Access Seating:
For all performances, you can select up to two seats at our discounted access rate of 50% off per person. These include:
- Wheelchair park and companion seats
- End-of-aisle seating
- Central row seating
Step-free access to the Stalls is via a Domino Zonzini stair climber.
If you’ll remain in your wheelchair choose wheelchair spaces. For all other access requriements including transferring, choose access tickets.
Upcoming Access Performances:
To make a wheelchair transfer booking, purchase more than two tickets or to discuss your seating requirements further, please contact our Access team on 0330 333 4815 or access@nimaxtheatres.com.
Duchess Theatre
3-5 Catherine Street, London, WC2B 5LA
