Rome, power, celebrity and a descent into madness: Nero at Southwark Playhouse heads to the Elephant venue this autumn, and it sounds right up my street.
Overview
Nero, a new musical from the Tony Award-winning writers of Spring Awakening, runs at Southwark Playhouse Elephant from 2 November to 5 December 2026. Andrew Barth Feldman stars as the young Roman emperor in his London stage debut.
Before Nero’s name became synonymous with tyranny, he was an artist, performer and reluctant heir suddenly handed unimaginable power. The musical follows his search for identity as ambition, family, love and political intrigue collide — charting the path towards one of history’s most infamous legends.
That makes this more than a straightforward history musical. It is a story about fame, power, performance and what happens when a person becomes larger than the world around them. With its darker Roman setting, it feels like a brilliant fit for anyone who enjoys historical drama with a bit of bite.
Cast
Andrew Barth Feldman stars as Nero. Further cast details can be added here as they are confirmed for this production.
Creative Team
Nero has book and lyrics by Steven Sater and music by Duncan Sheik, the duo behind Spring Awakening. It is directed by Lindsay Posner, with choreography by James Cousins.
Production Images
Production and rehearsal images will be added here when available, with photographer and PR credits preserved.
Clarissa’s Review ✨
I haven’t reviewed Nero yet. If I see the production, this guide will link to my full review here while keeping the practical show information on this page.
Tickets & Book the Show
Official booking information: Southwark Playhouse
Practical Information
- Venue: Southwark Playhouse Elephant, Main Space
- Dates: 2 November to 5 December 2026
- Press night: Friday 6 November 2026
- Running time: approximately 2 hours 20 minutes, including an interval
- Age guidance: 15+
- Captioned performance: Tuesday 24 November, 7pm
Content Guidance
The production advises that it contains flashing lights and images, loud noises, strong language, blood, gore, nudity and violence, plus themes including incest, death, murder, self-harm, suicide, sexual assault and childbirth.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Nero at Southwark Playhouse?
Nero runs from 2 November to 5 December 2026.
How long is Nero?
The running time is approximately 2 hours 20 minutes, including an interval.
What is the age guidance?
The production has an age guidance of 15+.
Is there a captioned performance?
Yes. A captioned performance is listed for Tuesday 24 November at 7pm.
Where Is Southwark Playhouse Elephant?
Southwark Playhouse Elephant is at 1 Dante Place, London SE11 4RX. The closest Tube station is Elephant & Castle. The venue has ground-level access to the mezzanine bar and box office, lift access to the main auditorium and bookable wheelchair spaces.
Latest Update
21 August 2026: This guide was prepared with the announced London dates, lead casting, creative team and practical performance information. Further production updates can be added here without overwriting the original record.
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Will you be heading to ancient Rome with Nero this November?
