About

Based on Stephen King's novella The Body, Stand By Me is a poignant coming-of-age film set in the summer of 1959. It centres on four 12-year-old boys—Gordie Lachance, Chris Chambers, Teddy Duchamp, and Vern Tessio—who embark on a two-day adventure to find the body of a missing local boy, Ray Brower, rumored to be lying dead near the train tracks miles from their small Oregon town. Each boy brings his own emotional baggage to the journey. Gordie, the quiet narrator, is still grieving the recent death of his older brother and struggling with feelings of invisibility at home. Chris, seen as a delinquent due to his family's reputation, reveals depth, intelligence, and a desire to escape his fate. Teddy is mentally scarred from abuse by his father, and Vern is sweet but timid, often the comic relief. As the boys trek through forests, evade trains, and camp under the stars, they share stories, reveal vulnerabilities, and confront fears—both physical and emotional. The trip becomes more than a quest to see a dead body; it's a powerful rite of passage that marks the end of childhood innocence.

Stand By Me is remembered for its emotional honesty, strong performances, and reflective narration by the adult Gordie, who looks back on the experience as a formative moment in his life. It explores themes of friendship, loss, and the bittersweet nature of growing up.

We recommend those with accessibility issues to consider purchasing tickets at the rear of the auditorium

PLEASE NOTE THAT, OUT OF CONSIDERATION FOR THOSE WHO SHARE OUR SPACE ON A REGULAR BASIS, THE ROYAL LYCEUM IS AN ALCOHOL
FREE THEATRE AND WE ASK THAT PATRONS RESPECT THIS DECISION.

We are proud to partner with our Abbey Road neighbours for this production. Small World Restaurant & Tapas Bar, Meat 59 & Ning's Thai will be offering a 10% discount on Pre Theatre meals on the night of your booking. Please book in advance and advise of the discount and present your ticket or evidence of your booking on arrival. Enjoy!

Limited street parking is available but nearest car pars are located - Lower Union Lane TQ2 5PN (Abbey Road Entrance) Levels 1 to 5a (8am to midnight) & Fleet Walk Shopping Centre TQ2 5EA.