The Animals Come to the Table

at Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
Bankside Available from Fri 11 Dec to Sun 24 Jan

Book The Animals Come to the Table tickets and experience a bold new world premiere at Shakespeare's Globe

What would happen if the natural world finally had its say? The Animals Come to the Table is a brand-new play from acclaimed playwright Timberlake Wertenbaker, bringing politics, philosophy, comedy and environmental questions together in an unforgettable theatrical experience at the candlelit Sam Wanamaker Playhouse.

  • World premiere of a brand-new play by acclaimed playwright Timberlake Wertenbaker
  • Experience a funny, provocative and thought-provoking new production
  • Set in the atmospheric candlelit Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
  • Follow a unique negotiation between humanity and the natural world
  • A timely story exploring nature, power and our shared future
  • Book now for this limited London run at Shakespeare's Globe

The Animals Come to the Table at Sam Wanamaker Playhouse: A witty and powerful new play

  • Dates: 11th December 2026 - 24th January 2027
  • Age Guidance: All under 16s must be accompanied by an adult and cannot be seated separately
  • Venue: Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, Shakespeare's Globe, 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT
  • Run Time: TBC

What happens when the earth finally answers back?

The lights go out. The animals arrive. And humanity is summoned to the negotiating table.

A negotiator and an interpreter are called to a secret emergency meeting unlike any they've ever attended. Waiting for them are a chicken, a rat, a snow leopard and countless voices from across the natural world, all demanding an end to exploitation and ecological destruction. What follows is a funny, furious and unsettling encounter that challenges assumptions about humanity's place in the world.

  • A world premiere written for the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
  • By celebrated playwright Timberlake Wertenbaker
  • Blends comedy, politics, philosophy and environmental themes
  • A playful but powerful exploration of humanity's relationship with nature
  • Performed in Shakespeare's Globe's intimate indoor theatre
  • A unique theatrical experience that encourages audiences to see the world differently

Funny, imaginative and full of big ideas, The Animals Come to the Table invites audiences to consider what might happen if nature finally got a seat at the table.

Book your The Animals Come to the Table London tickets today and experience one of the most exciting new plays coming to Shakespeare's Globe.

Location

Sam Wanamaker Playhouse

21 New Globe Walk,
Bankside,
London,
SE1 9DT
Show on Google Maps

How to find us

Sam Wanamaker Playhouse is located within Shakespeare's Globe at 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London SE1 9DT.

  • By Underground: The nearest stations are London Bridge, Blackfriars, Southwark and Mansion House.
  • By train: London Bridge and Blackfriars stations are both within walking distance.
  • By bus: Route 381 stops nearby at Lavington Street.
  • By foot: The venue is a short walk from the Millennium Bridge and Bankside riverside walkway.
  • By river: Bankside Pier is nearby for Thames Clipper services.
Facilities
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Accessible toilets
  • Assisted listening facilities
  • Theatre bar
  • Refreshments available
  • Gift shop
  • Relaxed performances (where scheduled)
  • Accessible performance programme
  • Globe visitor facilities
More Info
Is Sam Wanamaker Playhouse wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Sam Wanamaker Playhouse offers accessible facilities for visitors with mobility requirements, including wheelchair-accessible seating and a programme of accessible performances. The venue also offers Relaxed, Captioned and Audio Described performances for selected productions.

Is Sam Wanamaker Playhouse suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome at Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, although age suitability varies by production.

Is there food and drink at Sam Wanamaker Playhouse?

Yes, visitors can purchase food and drinks at Shakespeare's Globe's on-site bars and hospitality areas before performances.

How do you get to Sam Wanamaker Playhouse?

Sam Wanamaker Playhouse is located at Shakespeare's Globe, 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London SE1 9DT. The venue is best reached on foot from Blackfriars, London Bridge, Southwark or Mansion House stations. It is also just 50 metres from the Millennium Bridge and close to Bankside Pier for Thames river services.

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