The Spy Who Came In Hits West End

David Eldridge’s gripping stage adaptation of The Spy Who Came in from the Cold is heading to London’s West End, following its acclaimed premiere at Chichester Festival Theatre. The production will run at @sohoplace from 17 November 2025 to 21 February 2026.

Based on the bestselling Cold War novel by John le Carré, this marks the first time any of the author’s works has been brought to the stage. Directed by Jeremy Herrin, the show features its original cast, including Rory Keenan, Agnes O’Casey, Gunnar Cauthery and John Ramm.

Set in the tense world of espionage, the play follows British agent Alec Leamas as he undertakes a dangerous mission that blurs the lines between loyalty, deception and morality. Herrin noted the enthusiastic response in Chichester, saying the transfer is especially meaningful given the show’s proximity to George Smiley’s fictional base at Cambridge Circus.

Eldridge describes the story as "strikingly relevant," tackling the question of how to retain one's humanity when operating in a world driven by brutality and secrecy.

The creative team includes Max Jones (set design), Azusa Ono (lighting), Paul Englishby (music), and Elizabeth Purnell (sound), with movement, fight and voice direction rounding out the production’s atmospheric impact.

Presented by the Ink Factory and Second Half Productions in association with Nica Burns, this adaptation promises a powerful theatrical experience that brings le Carré’s classic to life for a new audience.