The Royal Court Theatre is a theatre for writers. It is a major force in the world of theatre for discovering and nurturing new, emerging, and established writers.

The Royal Court is at the forefront of creating restless, aware, controversial theatre thanks to its playwrights. They welcome unheard voices and free thinkers who via their works, challenge our perceptions.

Every year, over 120,000 people visit the Royal Court in Sloane Square, London, and many more see their work in other places thanks to links with the West End in London and New York as well as the UK and international tours, internet platforms, our residencies throughout London, and site-specific work. With unconventional thinking and stimulating dialogue, they aim to inspire audiences and influence future writers via all of their work. An ongoing programme of writers’ attachments, readings, workshops, and playwriting groups is part of the Royal Court’s substantial development activities, which includes a diverse spectrum of writers and artists.

The Royal Court has links with writers on every continent as a result of the International Department’s pioneering work around the world during the past two decades.

From John Osborne to Jasmine Lee-Jones, they’ve commissioned and produced hundreds of writers since 1956. Every decade’s Royal Court dramas are now produced on stage and taught in classrooms and institutions all around the world.

They’re now looking ahead, and are dedicated to achieving a carbon net zero arts venue by 2020, ensuring that they can continue to serve future generations of writers and audiences.

The Royal Court feel that it is one of the most important theatres in the world due to its devotion to the writer and their future. Currently they are showing Rare Earth Mettle which is a dramatic telling of when three worlds collide.

Rare Earth Mettle

Al Smith’s epic new play is a brutally comic exploration of risk, delusion and power.

“You don’t tell an American to turn off their light; you build them a better light bulb.”

Three worlds collide on a Bolivian salt flat.

A leading doctor, who has travelled from the UK, believes she can save the NHS, solve the British mental health crisis, and advance her career. A Silicon Valley billionaire, who has been watching the site from his satellites, believes he can save the world building affordable electric cars, and make millions of dollars in the process. And the indigenous community, who have preserved the land for generations, believe both visitors have propositions that could transform their futures. Each pursue their own ambitions, but which is the greatest good?

Al Smith returns to the Royal Court following Harrogate, for which he was nominated Most Promising Playwright (Evening Standard Theatre Awards). He first worked with the theatre as a participant of a Royal Court Writers’ Group where emerging writers are given space and support to develop. Royal Court Associate Director Hamish Pirie directs.

Jerwood Theatre Downstairs

Mon – Sat: 7.30pm (except 16 Nov 7pm)

Thu & Sat matinees: 2.30pm (from 18 Nov)

Running time is 3 hours 10 minutes, including a 20 minute interval.

This production contains haze, smoke, flashing lights, laser and strobe effects