The RSC winter season 2025: From whizzpopping giants to Edwardian drama
The Royal Shakespeare Company is in full swing for the festive period. Whether you need a family treat or a serious dramatic marathon, here is what is on stage in Stratford-upon-Avon right now.
As the Christmas lights go up on Bridge Street, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre is moving from its autumn tragedies to its big winter blockbusters. This year’s programme offers a stark choice: whimsical childhood nostalgia or a gripping, two-part family dynasty saga.
The big family hit: The BFG
Venue: Royal Shakespeare Theatre | Running until: January 2026
It wouldn’t be Christmas in Stratford without the RSC’s traditional family show. This year, they are tackling Roald Dahl’s classic, The BFG.
This is a brand new adaptation, promising to bring Giant Country to life with the kind of spectacular puppetry and stagecraft the RSC is famous for (think Matilda or The Magician’s Elephant). It is the perfect entry point for younger children, but be warned: tickets for December weekends are selling fast. Expect “whizzpopping” humour and a very big friendly giant taking over the main stage.
The drama event: The Forsyte Saga
Venue: Swan Theatre | Format: Part 1 & Part 2
Over in the Swan Theatre, things are getting decidedly more serious. The company is staging a massive adaptation of The Forsyte Saga. Based on John Galsworthy’s Nobel Prize-winning books, this is period drama at its sharpest – full of repressed emotion, scandals, and corsets.
Last Chance to See
If you haven’t yet caught the headline autumn show, Macbeth, time is running out. The production has drawn huge crowds this season, but it will soon make way for the 2026 repertoire. Check the ticket availability page for last-minute returns.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The RSC has also dropped teasers for the year ahead. 2026 will see the launch of a new production of The Tempest and Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard. Booking for the spring season is arguably the best Christmas present you can buy for the theatre lover in your life.
