The classics reimagined: 10 plays every theatre lover should experience this festive season

At the National Theatre, we bring stories to life that resonate with audiences across generations. Some plays stand the test of time, capturing universal themes of love, ambition, and conflict that continue to spark dialogue and stir emotions.

We’ve curated a list of ten quintessential plays, celebrated worldwide and cherished by audiences as timeless classics which you can watch from the comfort of your own home with a subscription from National Theatre at Home.

1. The Crucible – Arthur Miller

This powerful production of The Crucible captures the suspense and moral intensity of Arthur Miller’s masterpiece. Set during the Salem witch trials, The Crucible delves into the devastating effects of fear, hysteria, and suspicion.

With haunting visuals and a stellar cast including Erin Doherty, this play reminds audiences of the dangers of societal paranoia and the courage required to stand up for one’s beliefs.

2. A Midsummer Night’s Dream – William Shakespeare

With mischievous fairies, mistaken identities, and romantic entanglements, this joyous adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream breathes life into one of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies and transports audiences into the enchanting world of an Athenian forest where love and laughter reign.

Gwendoline Christie, Oliver Chris, David Moorst and Hammed Animashaun lead the cast, perfectly capturing the play’s whimsical magic, this version is a feast for the senses and a testament to the timelessness of Shakespeare’s humour and insight.

A production from the Bridge Theatre.

3. Romeo & Juliet – William Shakespeare

This breathtaking production of Romeo & Juliet brings a cinematic edge to the classic tale.

Starring Josh O’Connor as Romeo and Jessie Buckley as Juliet, this adaptation combines Shakespeare’s iconic language with a stark, modern background and innovative visuals, making this story of star-crossed lovers feel as fresh as ever.

This version of Shakespeare’s timeless classic amplifies the raw emotion and intensity of young love and family rivalry, leaving a lasting impression on every viewer.

4. Macbeth – William Shakespeare

Experience the dark allure of Shakespeare’s Macbeth in this intense production with Ralph Fiennes in the title role and Indira Varma the role of Lady Macbeth.

Fiennes and Varma, along with their co-stars offer a portrayal that is both terrifying and heartbreakingly human. Directed with a dark, cinematic style, this adaptation plunges audiences into the haunted world of Scotland’s bloody moors and stormy nights, where the supernatural collides with unchecked ambition.

This is Macbeth at its most visceral, and it’s an unmissable adaptation available to stream now on National Theatre at Home.

In association with Eilene Davidson Productions, Gavin Kalin Productions and Trafalgar Releasing.

5. Antigone – Sophocles

Experience the raw intensity of Antigone with this compelling adaptation of Sophocles’ classic. In defying Creon’s harsh decree to leave her brother unburied, Antigone risks everything to uphold her family’s honour, sparking a moral and political confrontation.

This modern take on the Greek tragedy with Christopher Eccleston and Jodie Whittaker at the forefront, highlights the timeless conflict between personal duty and state law all within a contemporary setting.

The story of Antigone’s defiance resonates profoundly, challenging audiences to consider the complexities of justice, authority, and morality.

6. King Lear – William Shakespeare

This striking adaptation of King Lear delivers a heartrending portrayal of betrayal, madness, and familial strife.

With Sir Ian McKellen in the title role, this production presents Shakespeare’s tragic king in all his vulnerability and pride, navigating the emotional wreckage of his decisions as family and state are plunged into a violent power struggle.

The intimate staging and powerful performances immerse viewers in the play’s themes of loyalty and loss, making it a must-watch on National Theatre at Home.

A production from Chichester Festival Theatre.

7. Hedda Gabler – Henrik Ibsen

Henrik Ibsen’s complex heroine, Hedda Gabler, is reimagined in this interpretation of a timeless classic.

Ruth Wilson takes on the role of Hedda in this modern stage adaptation, delivering a captivating performance that reveals the character’s deep frustrations and hidden desires. Set within a stark, minimalist apartment, Hedda and Tesman return from their honeymoon to a marriage already strained. Feeling trapped yet determined, Hedda seeks to control those around her, only to watch as her own life begins to unravel.

This production of Hedda Gabler explores themes of freedom, manipulation, and societal expectations, making it as compelling today as when it was first performed.

8. The Seagull – Anton Chekhov

Anton Chekhov’s The Seagull comes to life in this beautifully rendered production, exploring themes of love, ambition, and the longing for meaning. Emilia Clarke heads this ensemble cast that brings depth and nuance to each character and immerses audiences in the emotional complexities of Chekhov’s world.

Set on a secluded estate, the story follows characters entangled in unfulfilled desires and artistic frustrations, exposing the subtle tensions between their aspirations and realities.

A Jamie Lloyd Company production.

9. All My Sons – Arthur Miller

Arthur Miller’s All My Sons is given a powerful revival in this production, where themes of family loyalty, ethics, and the American Dream are brought vividly to life.

Set in post-World War II America, the story follows Joe Keller, a businessman whose past decisions come back to haunt him, shattering the facade of his family’s happiness.

With Sally Field and Bill Pullman leading the cast, this gripping adaptation highlights the play’s moral complexities and emotional depth.

A production from The Old Vic and Headlong.

10. Medea – Euripides

This bold adaptation of Medea takes audiences into the heart of Euripides’ tragic tale of love and revenge.

Helen McCrory delivers a fierce performance as Medea, a woman heartbroken and stricken with grief who plans appalling revenge on her ex-husband, Jason, to destroy everything he holds dear.

The contemporary staging and intense visuals in this production bring a fresh perspective to this ancient story, allowing audiences to feel the full force of Medea’s emotional journey and moral complexity.

Unwrap the magic of theatre with a subscription from National Theatre at Home

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With access to over 90 amazing shows, and an extensive Audio Description, British Sign Language and Hard of Hearing caption offering, they can experience unmissable theatre, all from the comfort of their sofa.

Looking for the ultimate gift for theatre lovers? Treat them to a year of streamed theatre—enjoy 12 months for the price of 10—or choose to gift anywhere between 1 and 11 months, from as little as £9.99. It’s more than just a gift; it’s an experience they’ll cherish.