Thrones Come to Stratford: The Mad King Heads to the RSC This Summer

The Royal Shakespeare Company will stage Game of Thrones: The Mad King at Stratford-upon-Avon’s Royal Shakespeare Theatre this summer, directed by Dominic Cooke with Duncan Macmillan as playwright. The prequel-set drama centers on Lyanna Stark (in her teens) during Harrenhal’s tournament and weaves a Romeo-and-Juliet–like arc with Rhaegar Targaryen, with Ned Stark’s younger self among the cast of younger characters. Casting is underway with two key roles already offered, and George R.R. Martin contributed material and consultation. The show aims to appeal to both hardcore fans and new audiences, with tickets going on sale in April and talks of a West End transfer to Gillian Lynne Theatre after the summer run.