Matthew Bourne's PLAY WITHOUT WORDS returns for 25th anniversary

Inspired by the 1963 classic film The Servant and 1960s new-wave British cinema, Play Without Words is set in a well-to-do Chelsea house in 1965. An urbane master and his beautiful fiancee welcome their new manservant, Prentice, into their home. But behind the veneer of privilege and domestic social order lurks a struggle for power and sexual domination, and what happens next will change their lives forever.

Written by Matthew Bourne and set to a jazz-influenced original score by Terry Davies, Play Without Words opened to resounding success at the National Theatre in 2002. It was nominated for five Olivier Awards, winning two for Best Entertainment and Best Theatre Choreographer. It was included in The Guardian’s best dance of the 21st Century, and David Benedict recently included the production in his highlights of the past 60 years of the National Theatre, for The Stage.

Now, twenty-five years after it first premiered, London audiences will get to experience this hit show once again at Sadler's Wells. The production features Olivier nominated designs by Lez Brotherston and Olivier nominated lighting design by Paule Constable.

Play Without Words will run at Sadler’s Wells from 27 July until 21 August 2027, followed by two exclusive performances at Curve, Leicester on 23 and 24 July 2027. Casting is to be announced.

Play Without Words Tickets