‘But this rough magic I here abjure.’

On a remote island, an exiled Duke prepares to perform his swansong, his great act of revenge. Kenneth Branagh takes the role of Prospero in Shakespeare’s final play, a meditation on art, power and freedom, directed by Richard Eyre.

Prospero summons his magical gifts into a devastating sea storm which hurls a ship’s crew onto the island – among them his usurping brother. With supernatural islanders as unwilling agents of his scheme and the castaways spellbound, Prospero’s plot advances. Old scores must be settled; his daughter Miranda must find love.

But as his vision unfolds, a different ending emerges – one of forgiveness, love, compassion. And with it, the chance to renounce his magic forever.

• Cast and Creatives
• Related events
• The plot

• • Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, 13 May – 20 Jun 2026

  • Book Tickets

  • Running time: TBC

Photography credit: Louise Richardson