Back to Plays

THE MISTAKE Tickets

An urgent new play about the catastrophic ‘mistake’ that launched our nuclear age.

Get on the list

Sign up for our emails and be the first to know as soon as tickets go on sale.

This production is recommended for ages 12+.

Performance dates

14 – 18 October 2025

Arcola Theatre

Run time: 1 hour 20 minutes (no interval)

No interval

  • Show info
  • Accessibility

The Mistake Arcola Theatre tickets

An urgent, award-winning drama by Michael Mears, The Mistake returns to London’s Arcola Theatre following its sell-out debut at the Edinburgh Fringe. Directed by Rosamunde Hutt, this compelling play runs for a limited season—book your official tickets now!

About The Mistake

Set in 1942, on a squash court in Chicago, a brilliant experiment ignites the chain of events that will eventually reshape history. Three years later, Hiroshima lies in ruin. Through the perspectives of a Hungarian scientist, an American pilot, and a Japanese daughter, this gripping drama examines the moral dilemmas born of scientific discovery and human ambition.

Facts and critical acclaim

  • ‘A sell-out hit at Arcola Theatre in 2023, now returning after successful runs in the U.S. (including off-Broadway) and Japan
  • ★★★★ “The past comes alive – a gripping piece of storytelling.” (The Times)
  • ★★★★★ “A dramatic treat.” (UK Theatre Web)

The Mistake cast

  • Shigeko and other roles - Riko Nakazono
  • Michael Mears - Leo Szilard, General Tibbets and other roles

The Mistake creatives

  • Writer/ Producer - Michael Mears
  • Director - Rosamunde Hutt
  • Set Designer - Mark Friend
  • Lighting Designer - Richard Williamson
  • Sound Designer - Claire Windsor

Content

Content Warnings: Verbal descriptions of injury and death