Playing Burton - London

Emmy Award-winner Matthew Rhys returns to the Welsh stage for the first time in 22 years in this acclaimed one-man play about international star Richard Burton.

Written by Mark Jenkins, Playing Burton offers a penetrating look at the actor’s life, from his impoverished South Wales beginnings to his rise as one of the greatest performers of his generation. Charting his passionate love affair with Elizabeth Taylor and his very public struggle with alcoholism, the play is a soulful exploration of fame, ambition, and identity.

This special performance by one of Wales’ most renowned actors offers a unique opportunity to support Welsh National Theatre’s inaugural season in 2026.

For accessible tickets, please see FAQ below.

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Mae Matthew Rhys, enillydd Gwobr Emmy, yn dychwelyd i lwyfan Cymru am y tro cyntaf ers 22 mlynedd yn y ddrama un-dyn clodwiw hon am y seren ryngwladol Richard Burton.

Wedi'i ysgrifennu gan Mark Jenkins, mae Playing Burton yn cynnig cip olwg treiddgar ar fywyd yr actor, o'i ddechreuadau tlawd yn Ne Cymru i'w siwrnai fel un o berfformwyr gorau ei genhedlaeth. Gan olrhain ei berthynas gariadus angerddol ag Elizabeth Taylor a'i frwydr gyhoeddus iawn gydag alcoholiaeth, mae'r ddrama yn archwiliad llawn enaid o enwogrwydd, uchelgais a hunaniaeth.

Mae'r perfformiad arbennig hwn gan un o actorion enwocaf Cymru yn cynnig cyfle unigryw i gefnogi tymor cyntaf Welsh National Theatre yn 2026.

Am docynnau hygyrch, gweler y Cwestiynau Cyffredin isod.

Important Information

Contains strong language and references to alcoholism

Age Restrictions

Ages 14+.

Performance Times

Now taking bookings for performances from Sun 16th November 2025 until Sun 16th November 2025.

Show times for each day are below.

The Old Vic Details

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The Old Vic Location

Please note: The location shown on the map is an approximate location of the theatre. In the majority of cases the theatre will be marked on the map so please make sure you locate the exact location yourself. If the theatre is not shown on the map please make sure you locate the correct road name and take account of the directions.