Ralph Little to star in stage adaption of classic spy novel

Ralf Little, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in Death In Paradise and The Royle Family is to step into the shoes of secret service agent Alec Leamas in the stage adaptation of John le Carré’s iconic Cold War novel, The Spy Who Came In From The Cold coming to Grand Opera House York Tue 9 Jun – Sat 13 Jun 2026.

THE SPY NOVEL THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING. NOW LIVE ON STAGE.

For the first time ever, a novel by John le Carré — the undisputed master of the modern spy genre whose works include Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy and The Night Manager — is brought to life in a thrilling stage adaptation.

Starring Ralf Little (The Royle Family, Death In Paradise), The Spy Who Came In From The Cold is a riveting journey through the fog-shrouded terrain of Cold War espionage, deception, and moral compromise.

Following a sold-out run at Chichester Festival Theatre and direct from the West End, this gripping new play written by David Eldridge (Beginning, Middle, End) and directed by Jeremy Herrin (Grace Pervades, People, Places & Things) comes to Gran Opera House York for 1 week only.

This production contains strong and derogatory language prevalent in the period, including anti-Semitism, and depictions of violence including torture and gunshots.

The Spy Who Came In From The Cold plays at Grand Opera House York Tue 9 Jun – Sat 13 Jun 2026. Tickets are available here.