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Theater in London: The Complete Guide

 TripSavvy / Gautier Houba

With a Shakespearean heritage and a famous West End that’s buzzing with star power, London is a dream city for fans of the theater. Here’s a short and sweet overview of what you need to know about London’s famous thespian scene. 

West End and Other Major Players

The West End, located in central London, is London’s theater district and contains around 40 venues. With all the prestige of Broadway (if not more), West End shows are the heavyweights with the big names. They can be any genre including musicals, plays, comedies, or even pantomime (a family-friendly musical comedy). Some of the West End’s hottest stage productions include the world-famous " Hamilton " at the Victoria Palace Theatre; " Matilda The Musical " at the Cambridge Theatre; " Harry Potter and the Cursed Child " at the Palace Theatre; and the West End’s longest-running musical, " Les Misérables " at The Queen’s Theatre. 

Though not considered West End, there are a number of prestigious “non-commercial” theaters of note. Some of the most iconic independent theaters are the Old Vic and the Young Vic ; both of which are located on The Cut, a street in Waterloo by South Bank. The other major institution in that area is the well-respected National Theatre . Housed in a massive complex with three auditoriums, this South Bank establishment hosts up to twenty-five productions a year.

Off West End

Like Off Broadway, Off West End refers to “fringe” theaters in London that are located outside of the West End, such as the Lyric Hammersmith ,  Bush Theatre , and the  Donmar Warehouse .

Pub Theater

Also included in the category of Off West End and fringe theater is pub theater, which consists of more casual productions housed in separate rooms of pubs. A few pubs of note include Earl’s Court’s award-winning Finborough , which stages both plays and musical theater and Upstairs at The Gatehouse , a quaint pub theatre in Camden that stages a variety of genres and shows.

Shakespeare

London loves Shakespeare (it was his adoptive city, after all), and whenever you come to the capital, you’re sure to find some classic Shakespeare on the stage. A good place to start is the open-air Shakespeare’s Globe theater, which is a reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse set beside the River Thames in London’s Southwark area. The venue hosts guided tours and puts on Shakespeare’s famous plays. The seats are covered, but the area right in front of the stage, called the yard, is for standing only and is exposed to the elements.

The Royal Shakespeare Company , though based in the Bard’s hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon, always has productions in London. Right now you can see "The Taming of the Shrew" through August 2019.

Of course, there are other places to see Shakespeare in London too. For example through August 2019, The Bridge Theatre is putting on a fully immersive production of the famous comedy " A Midsummer Night's Dream ."

Outdoor Theater

Besides Shakespeare’s Globe, there are several other al fresco venues for shows, most of which only pop up in the warm summer months. Regent's Park Open Air Theatre stages Shakespeare, musicals, and operas, and there’s the Holland Park Opera set in the eponymous Holland Park.

Song and Dance

All year round, the historic  Royal Opera House in Covent Garden hosts The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet, and The London Coliseum in the West End hosts the English National Ballet. 

How To Get Tickets

Most tickets can be booked online through the show’s website. Sign up for the theater’s newsletter to be the first one to hear about new releases and tickets.

There are also other online sites selling tickets like TodayTix , which peddles last-minute tickets at reduced prices for over 50 London shows via their website and app. There are tickets for shows playing that day as well as shows playing up to thirty days in advance. 

Almost all theaters have box offices, so to avoid online fees, try stopping by in person. For sold-out shows, it’s worth checking at the box office for any late-release or returned tickets.

Another way to score last minute and discounted tickets is to go to the TKTS  booth in Leicester Square. It sells tickets for shows that are on that day as well as tickets for shows up to a week in advance.

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Discover the London theatre scene, with the best shows in town. Catch the best musicals in London , with matinee and evening performances taking place every day. You’ll also find lots of plays in London , from timeless classics to new performances that set the stage alight! We recommend booking theatre tickets as early as possible since the best seats sell out fast.

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This London Neighborhood Has World-class Theater, Impressive Museums, and Cool Cocktail Bars

Both locals and visitors find entertainment and more in London’s West End.

Best Things to Do

Best restaurants, best hotels, best shopping, best nightlife.

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With five trips to London stamped in my passport, I’ve visited most of the spots that top tourists’ to-do lists, especially because two of the trips were with young nieces — first-time overseas travelers. We rode in an open-top bus, watched the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, enjoyed the view from the London Eye, and toured Kensington Palace. We shopped for souvenirs at Covent Garden Market and devoured fish and chips at a local pub.

I’ve spent time in Greenwich with a friend, arriving from Paris on the Eurostar, a few stops on the Underground, and a short river boat cruise. And my first visit to London many years ago included Hyde Park, Westminster Abbey, and the Tower of London. However, even after all those admittedly short trips, I still didn’t have a sense of London’s many neighborhoods and how they all fit together.

So, on my recent trip, with plans for theater and shopping, I decided to make London’s West End my home base as a way to become familiar with that lively section of the city. Famous for Oxford Street stores, restaurants, museums, Piccadilly Circus, and more than 40 theaters, the West End offered all I needed in a convenient location. What I found was more than enough to keep me busy from morning to night for nearly a week. If theater, shopping, and a bit of history sound appealing, you’ll find them in London’s West End with this guide.

Wiktor Szymanowicz/Future Publishing via Getty Images

Visit West End museums.

Explore the National Portrait Gallery where paintings, photographs, drawings, and maps take visitors from 16th-century portraits to photos of rock stars — and so much in between. Continue a day of art enjoyment at the Royal Academy of Arts .

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

See a show at a West End theater.

Take in a performance (or two) in one of London’s famed West End theaters, where you’ll find popular musicals, comedies, dramas, immersive shows, Shakespearean plays, and more. Theaters range from intimate to large, ornate neo-classical venues where the theater itself is part of the show.

Treat yourself to a spa day.

Maria Chevalet

On a rainy day, indulge in a luxurious spa treatment at the hidden-away, underground Akasha Wellbeing Center at Hotel Café Royal. There’s a heated pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, and fitness center. Or visit The Retreat at The Londoner or the AWAY Spa at the W London Hotel.

See the church where a Bridgerton wedding was filmed.

Leon Neal/Getty Images

Visit St. James’s in Piccadilly, the church where the wedding in Bridgerton ’s second season was filmed. Check the schedule and come for a concert in the intimate space. When I stopped in, a mid-day piano performance was in progress — perfect timing.

Enjoy afternoon tea in an elegant setting.

Sip tea and nibble on savory and sweet bites with one of London’s premier afternoon tea experiences. I loved Fortnum & Mason ’s afternoon tea, and there are many other lovely spots including The Langham , The Ritz , and Claridges . 

Unique dining venues set in a three-story 18th-century townhouse include the Michelin-starred Lecture Room & Library, the elegantly decked-out Gallery, the Parlour, the East Bar, and the beautiful, if somewhat bizarre, Glade. The egg-shaped individual loos, set under a colorful ceiling, attract as much attention (and photos) as the delicious food and over-the-top decor.

Café Murano

Located near Piccadilly in St. James, the restaurant is convenient for a pre-theater dinner or for a late meal after a show. Chef Angela Hartnett’s signature arancini, crisp and tasty, are favorites, and there’s a good selection of Italian wines to accompany the seasonal menu of dishes representing Italy’s cuisine. 

This lively St. James dining spot serves lunch, dinner, Saturday brunch, and weekday breakfast. There’s a bustling bar scene (every seat at the huge bar was occupied during my visit, with many enjoying dinner there). Signature, classic, and no-alcohol cocktails are offered along with beer, wine, cider, and a list of gin and tonics. Seafood, beef, pork, and plant-based dishes are well-prepared, delicious, and presented beautifully.

Serving traditional dishes that represent the diverse food culture of Indonesia, Toba ’s cuisine offers an array of flavors and Indonesian spices. The menu includes Nasi Goreng a la Toba , fried rice with seafood or tofu and tempe for a vegetarian option, and guests can expect a bit of spice, making the dishes tasty and authentic. Sunday brunch and pre-and post-theater dining are available.

Claridge’s ArtSpace Café

Courtesy of Claridge

Creative breakfast and lunch menus include signature crêpes, tortillas, toasties, croque monsieurs and madams, and an appetizing selection of pastries, cakes, and coffee beverages. Casual, comfortable, and classy, the café sits above an art gallery with rotating exhibitions, free for all to view and enjoy. 

Heddon Street Kitchen

The menu at Gordon Ramsey’s West End restaurant includes sushi, salad, seafood, steaks, salads, and a special Beef Wellington for two. Kids eat free, and adults will want to check out Hidden Heddon , serving signature cocktails and nibbles in an underground setting. 

Courtesy of The Ritz London

The Ritz London

Located near Piccadilly, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, and West End theaters, this historic five-star hotel is in the heart of London. The elegant property features plush suites, refined design, superb service, and the Michelin star–honored Ritz Restaurant .

Hotel Café Royal

Hotel Cafe Royal is located on Regent Street steps from Piccadilly Circus, convenient to shopping, theater, restaurants, and London’s St. James's, Mayfair, and Soho neighborhoods. Below the hotel, the serene Akasha spa offers a variety of treatments, and an expansive lap pool, steam room, sauna, and Jacuzzi.

Dukes London

This classic London hotel , known for its superb martinis and traditional British style, is located in the heart of St. James’s Mayfair. Rooms are elegant, understated, and comfortable. The Great British Restaurant (GBR) offers all-day dining and specializes in “British dishes with a contemporary twist.”

Brown’s Hotel

Located in elegant Mayfair, Brown’s Hotel blends its nearly 200 years of history with sophisticated modern style and approachable Italian luxury. A favorite of royalty, Brown’s welcomes young guests thoughtfully with toys and treats. Dine at Charlie’s and drop in for a cocktail at the chic Donovan Bar .

Sofitel London St. James

British style with a Parisian touch, the hotel is located in the West End’s exclusive St. James neighborhood, convenient to shopping, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and theaters. The Michelin-starred Wild Honey St James for dinner, St James Bar for cocktails, and Afternoon Tea at The Rose Lounge combine for a delightful stay.  

The W London combines its hip vibe with excellent service, comfortable guest rooms, and convenient breakfast in the walkable Soho neighborhood near Leicester Square, Covent Garden, and Chinatown. Dine, drink, or relax with afternoon tea at The Perception or stop in for a cocktail at the W Lounge.

More than 300 shops, designer boutiques, restaurants, pubs, and department stores make Oxford Street the perfect place to shop ‘til you drop. Selfridges , open since 1909, houses six floors of clothing, designer brands, housewares, jewelry, wine, food, and furniture. Restaurants, a night club, movie theater, Champagne bar, and afternoon tea means you could spend your whole day there.

Fortnum & Mason , dating to 1707, specializes in fine foods, cheese, wine, spirits, jams, jellies, chocolate, tea, coffee, and elegant gifts. The food hall boasts fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, restaurants, and a delightful afternoon tea, accompanied by piano music.

Burlington Arcade , England’s oldest shopping arcade, is a covered promenade with skylights and classical architecture, home to 40 gorgeous shops — a fascinating place for window shopping or a splurge on something special. Make time for a tour with a uniformed, top-hatted Beadle to fully appreciate its history.

Browse the collection at Hamleys , one of the world’s oldest toy shops, or buy a gift for a special youngster (or yourself!). Visit Hatchards Piccadilly, London’t oldest bookshop, the bookseller to the Royal Household.

Jermyn Street is famous for high-end men’s fashion that includes luxury grooming products, shirt makers, leather goods, and bespoke suits. Shoppers will also find restaurants, wine shops, and art galleries.

Shop for designer brands on Regent Street and Bond Street , with labels like Ralph Loren, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Bottega Veneta, and Ferragamo.

Upgrade your movie night.

For the perfect cocktail, dinner, and a movie date night in a sophisticated setting, The Cinema at Selfridges is the place to go. Guests enjoy the latest films with three screens, state of the art sound, and luxurious reclining seating. In the luxurious foyer, cocktails, wine, beer, and Champagne are available, along with snacks, popcorn (of course!), and sweets.

See London from a rooftop.

Take in panoramic views of London from above it all at Willows on the Roof , high above Oxford Street. Sip a dark chocolate espresso martini and snack on a burger, charcuterie board, or another tasty dish. You can also check out the view at The Nest , located atop Treehouse Hotel where you can imbibe on an extensive selection of cocktails, beer, and wine along with light bites or something sweet.

Enjoy a stage performance at a West End theater.

Choose a popular musical, drama, a new production, or an interactive experience in one of nearly 40 theaters in London’s West End. From intimate stages to grand theaters with curved balconies, chandeliers, and Art Deco glamour, the environment and audience are all part of experiencing a live production.

Try your luck at the UK’s largest entertainment and casino venue.

Check out the Hippodrome Casino , open 24 hours every day, where you’ll find four floors of gaming, including roulette, baccarat, poker, electronic games, and more. There's also the Magic Mike show and eight bars and restaurants, including the outdoor terrace overlooking Soho.

Take on some friendly competition.

Boom Battle Bar features games like beer pong, shuffleboard, crazier golf, augmented reality axe throwing and darts, karaoke, and American pool.

London Theatre Guide

🎭 london theatre guide – london theatre direct.

One of the most popular activities for visitors to London is to go to the theatre. Whether you are staying in the Covent Garden – West End area or have chosen another area of London for your stay you won’t be too far from one of London’s famous theatres.

Below we have curated some of the most popular shows and musicals in London for your itinerary including which theatre they are at. Just click on the links for the price of the tickets and to make a booking!

London Theatre Direct – Musicals

London Theatre Direct – Plays

🎭 PHANTOM OF THE OPERA TICKETS

✔️ Her Majesty’s Theatre London

👧 MATILDA THE MUSICAL TICKETS

✔️ Cambridge Theatre London

🧙‍♀️ WICKED TICKETS

✔️ Apollo Victoria Theatre, London

☂ MARY POPPINS TICKETS

✔️ Prince Edward Theatre, London

🎤 TINA TICKETS

✔️ Aldwych Theatre, London

♬♫ MAMMA MIA THE MUSICAL TICKETS

✔️ Novello Theatre, London

🦁 THE LION KING TICKETS

✔️ Lyceum Theatre, London

📖 THE BOOK OF MORMON TICKETS

✔️ Prince of Wales Theatre, London

🐴 ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES TICKETS

✔️ Theatre Royal Haymarket, London

🌼 HEATHERS THE MUSICAL

✔️ Other Palace, London

LONDON THEATRE GUIDE – Viator

A Life Away

Why London Is Great for Theatre Lovers

London is a fantastic city for theatre lovers! Whether you’re visiting London specifically to experience the famous West End or just want to add some theatrical flair to your trip, there is plenty to occupy your time.

Table of Contents 

This article contains affiliate links, which means that I may earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use, and they help keep my content free – a win-win! For more information, see the affiliate disclosure .

Where is the West End?

London’s West End is world famous and one of the top London attractions. Generally known as London’s theatre district, the actual boundaries of the West End  aren’t so easy to pin down . Historically referring to a portion of Central London on the western side, north of the River Thames. Google Maps defines it with these boundaries: 

Focusing more on concept than geography, the West End is home to plays, musical theatre, opera and ballet on a grand scale. For Americans, your home reference would be Broadway in New York. 

While most famous, the West End isn’t the whole story on London theatre. Smaller theatres are dotted all over London, and even larger venues like the National Theatre and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre are located south of the Thames. 

What To Expect at London Theatre

Entrance and finding your seats.

There are a few London theatres that hold large audiences, but many of them are small when compared to theatres in the US. It’s common to encounter separate queues for the different seating areas inside the theatre as the staff help you find the right twisty corridor to your entrance.

Once you’ve found the right entrance line, expect a quick bag check and ticket scan. Most tickets are delivered digitally these days so you can present them on your phone.

Refreshments

I’ve yet to visit a London theatre venue that didn’t have a bar ready to serve me drinks and snacks. You can expect wine and beer on offer, as well as some simple cocktails like gin and tonic. Expect your drink to be open top and don’t expect drink holders at your seat. 

Snacks are usually bagged popcorn or crisps. Some shows have ushers selling tiny tubs of ice cream during intermission, which I always find a quirky choice. 

Purchase a Programme

Playbills are not handed out for free but are available for purchase. Our recent experience at Les Miserables actually had two separate programmes for sale. One was a classic playbill giving performer bios and song lists. The other was a larger brochure style book packed with performance photos. 

Visit the Stage Door

Because London theatres are smaller, it’s usually a simple process to figure out where the performers leave the venue. If you want to try your luck for a quick meet and greet after the show, simply head around to the back of the venue and look for the Stage Door. Since these open into public access streets or walkways there’s no reason you can’t wait outside. It’s not uncommon to find hopeful fans there gripping a programme in hopes of autographs from their favourite performer. 

Especially due to covid, you can’t be promised an opportunity to greet the performers. If the performer is a celebrity, you may be part of a large crowd with the same idea. But if a performance moved you, it’s worth a shot to tell the performer in person how much you enjoyed it. You might get a unique souvenir out of the experience too!

How To Book London Theatre Tickets

Individual theatres and theatre groups offer tickets for sale at their box office and on their website. There are several London theatre comprehensive sales websites, but  Official London Theatre  is a true one-stop-shop with tons of show tickets and discount offers. They are also run by the  Society of London Theatre  as a not-for-profit encouraging theatre engagement for all. 

If there is a particular show or theatre on your must-visit list, then give them a follow on Facebook or Twitter. This will keep you updated on any show changes and give you access to special promotions or ticket lotteries.

Saving on London Theatre Tickets

For any bucket list shows, it’s best to bite the bullet and buy your tickets in advance. If you are flexible on your show dates and times, or willing to gamble, there are paths to even the biggest shows for a fraction of the price.

For last minute tickets, stop by the TKTS booth in Leicester Square. Also run by the Society of London Theatre, discounts offered here are often also available online through  Official London Theatre .  

Another last minute gamble is to stop by the theatre box office at 10am on a show day. Shows will often offer their unsold tickets for the day at this time for steep discounts. 

Buying Children’s Theatre Tickets

Tickets are not usually discounted for children at the theatre, but there are some exceptions. Each August, London Kids Week has offered a free ticket for a child under 18 when accompanied by a full paying adult. 

Keep in mind that not all shows are appropriate for young audiences and many shows do not allow you to bring a child under 5. However, if you’re visiting London with a young child, there are still plenty of theatre options for you to enjoy. Check out  Unicorn Theatre  for wonderful shows divided by child age.  

London Sightseeing for Theatre Lovers

A theatre lover needs to see performances, but what else should you do while in London?

Theatre Tours

Get behind the scenes at some of London’s most inspiring and historic theatres. 

• Royal Drury Lane  – There’s been an entertainment site here since 1663! It is the world’s oldest theatre site in continuous use. Expect ghost stories and plenty of big names for the stars who have graced this stage. You can even book afternoon tea here in the newly restored Grand Saloon. 
• Royal Opera House  – Whether ballet and opera are new for you or a great love, this venue has many tales to tell. They offer behind the scenes tours as well as special tours emphasizing different bits of history. 
• Royal Albert Hall  – One of London’s largest and most iconic venues, this spot also has many tales to tell from its 150 years.  
• National Theatre  – This tour is great for theatre nerds who like to see how the magic happens. Tours often look in on the props and carpentry departments to see what’s being made. 
• Shakespeare’s Globe  – This tour is a great introduction to what theatre was like in Shakespeare’s time. The building is an impressive recreation of the original Globe and still offers shows and activities throughout the year. 

Museums with Theatre Ties

From costumes and set design to portraits of the artists and performers who’ve defined British theatre over the years.

• Victoria & Albert Museum  – This museum has many good exhibits, but theatre lovers should not miss the fabulous Theatre & Performance collection. Save time for a coffee out in the beautiful garden. 
• National Portrait Gallery  – This collection features portraits of British historic figures, including artists and performers. The exhibit rooms are beautiful and its located right on Trafalgar Square. 

Walking Tours

From the historic to the goofy and fun, a guided walking tour will bring London’s theatrical history to life.

• Shakespeare’s London  – Follow in the London footsteps of the world’s most famous playwright.
• West End Musicals Silent Disco Walking Tour  – Dance and sing while you learn!
• Secrets of London Walking Tour  – Historic tour not just for theatre lovers, but you will visit areas that inspired Charles Dickens.

Where to Stay in London for Theatre Lovers

Stay in the west end.

If you want to embrace the West End, then tighten your search down to Covent Garden. You can’t get much more central to the theatre action than this. Here are three highly reviewed options within a short walk from major theatres:

• Radisson Blu Edwardian Mercer Street Hotel
• W London Leicester Square
• Thistle Piccadilly

Hotels in this area can come with a high price tag and note that this area of London is lively at all hours. Hotels with lower ratings in this area often lose out because guests don’t enjoy the inevitable street noise. 

Stay in Marylebone

On my last visit featuring lots of theatre action, I stayed at the lovely  Hotel La Place  in Marylebone. This is one of my favourite areas in London. It’s easy to get anywhere from here but still has a quieter neighbourhood feel. Daunt Books on the high street is worth a visit and you’ll find many delicious cafes and coffee shops here. For more promising locations in Marylebone, check out:

• The Marylebone Hotel
• The Mandeville Hotel

Is London Theatre Worth the Visit?

London’s theatre performances are some of the best in the world. Even if you’ve seen a show before, the level of talent drawn here is truly tremendous. I’ve been to a lot of performances here with my theatre-mad daughter and have yet to have an experience that was less than wonderful. Whether taking in a large-scale musical, revisiting Shakespeare, or learning about the history of theatre here, don’t hesitate to indulge your theatre love!

Looking for more London? Don’t miss my Ultimate Guide To Planning a Trip to London:

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The best new London theatre openings in April

Ian McKellen, Brian Cox and PJ Harvey head up a busy month on the London stage

Some huge names dominate April in London, as stage legends Ian McKellen and Brian Cox take on colossal roles in plays by Shakespeare and Eugene O’Neill. Neither actor seems to be showing any sign of slowing down, but you have to think this is your last chance to see them in something quite so epic. Music legend PJ Harvey will also get her first major stage credit as songwriter for the National Theatre’s Dickens adaptation ‘London Tide’, in an otherwise eclectic month taking in everything from postcolonial interactive theatre to an adaptation of sci-fi classic ‘Minority Report’.

1. Player Kings

Ian McKellen is truly the David Attenborough of the stage: almost two decades past retirement age, this is something like the acting legend’s sixth stage role since the pandemic alone. And what a role. Aged 84, Sir Ian will take on one of the greatest of all Shakespearean parts to star as the funny, tragic Sir John Falstaff in auteur director Robert Icke’s four-hour modern-dress mash-up of ‘Henry IV’ parts one and two. Truly not to be missed, and if McKellen can get through a four-hour-play then you certainly can.

Noël Coward Theatre, Apr 1-Jun 22. Book tickets here .

2. Long Day’s Journey Into Night

After becoming a global superstar playing one flawed patriarch, ‘Succession’ stalwart and all-round acting legend Brian Cox cashes in the newfound heights of his fame to tackle another. ‘Long Day’s Journey Into Night’ is, of course, Eugene O’Neill’s posthumously published monolith of a play about the disintegration of the deeply damaged Tyrone family: Cox will star as James Tyrone, the embittered father, resentful of a career spent playing a single stage role.

Wyndham’s Theatre, until Jun 8. Book tickets here .

3. London Tide

Alt rock genius PJ Harvey has been quietly contributing songs to stage plays for years, largely those directed by Ian Rickson, who also directs her live shows. ‘London Tide’, however, marks her first outing as a headline creative in a stage show: it’s a new adaptation of Dickens’s ‘Our Mutual Friend’ by Ben Power, with songs by Harvey and direction from Rickson. A must for fans of the enduring grunge icon.

National Theatre, Apr 10-Jun 22.

4. Blue Beard

By all accounts this is another superb show from the brilliant Emma Rice, formerly of Kneehigh and Shakespeare’s Globe. Adapted by Rice from the bloodthirsty French legend about a wealthy nobleman who murders his many wives, her version of ‘Blue Beard’ has received rapturous notices on tour for its mix of her trademark whimsy and a hard-hitting feminist edge that emerges late on.

Battersea Arts Centre, Apr 23-May 18.

5. The Comeuppance

Cerebral US playwright Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins made a big splash back in 2017 when his superb plays ‘An Octoroon’ and ‘Gloria’ premiere in London at the same time. We’ve not heard much from him since, but hopes are high for the recast transfer of this dark comedy about a group of high school misfits who reconvene at their 20-year reunion and wonder how much they’ve really changed.

Almeida Theatre, Apr 6-May 18.

6. Machinal

Sophie Treadwell’s impressionist masterpiece about a young woman who violently snaps one day – inspired by the real-life 1928 case of Ruth Snyder – was last seen in London six years ago, at the Almeida. Now we’re getting a second in a decade: this Theatre Royal Bath production directed by Richard Jones transfers to the Old Vic on the back of excellent reviews, especially for star Rosie Sheehy.

Old Vic, Apr 11-Jun 1. Buy tickets here .

7. Minority Report

You don’t get a lot of sci-fi on the London stage. But a few years ago the Lyric Hammersmith produced an excellent adaptation of Lem Stanisław’s classic ‘Solaris’. And now it takes a fascinating stab at Philip K Dick’s Cold War short story ‘The Minority Report’. Adapted by David Haig, it concerns a future in which crime has been eliminated thanks to a psychic police department that arrests criminals before they act. But things go terribly wrong when the head of the unit is told she will commit a murder.

Lyric Hammersmith, Apr 19-May 18. Buy tickets here .

Theatre company Coney has long been a byword for clever, interesting interactive theatre. And playwright  Rhianna Ilube scored a superb hit at the Yard Theatre with her witty postcolonial drama ‘Samuel Takes a Break…’. Now the two have joined forces for new show ‘1884’, which takes you inside the little-remembered 1884 Berlin Conference in which the European powers formalised their division of Africa. Now you can decide how the continent is colonised, in a show that promises to be both entertaining and provocative.

Shoreditch Town Hall, Apr 17-27.

9. This is Memorial Device

David Keenan’s hallucinatory novel about a fictional Scottish indie band from the ’80s is a cult modern classic, and now it has a stage version. Having scored warm notices at the 2022 Edinburgh Fringe, the stage version of ‘This is Memorial Device’ finally makes its London debut, again starring Scots actor Paul Higgins.

Riverside Studios, Apr 23-May 11 . 

10. The Cord

A decade ago, Bijan Sheibani was tipped to become one of the biggest directors in the UK. That didn’t exactly happen (though don’t rule it out – he still keeps his end in). But what did is more interesting as his writing career took off: he was one of the lead writers on Netflix smash ‘One Day’ and had a hit at the Bush a few years back with debut play ‘The Arrival’. Now he follows it up with ‘The Cord’, an intriguing new drama about a wan who struggles to connect to his first child.

Bush Theatre, Apr 12-May 25. Buy tickets here .

The best new London theatre shows to book for in 2024.

It’s your last chance to see these seven London art exhibitions before the end of April.

• Andrzej Lukowski Theatre & Dance Editor, UK

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

London’s Most Historic Theatres

Step back into london's dramatic history with these historical theatres..

Sarah Roller

22 jun 2021, @sarahroller8.

Home to some of the world’s greatest playwrights, London’s theatres have long been acclaimed. With everything from ballet to musicals, opera to murder mysteries, there’s something on the stage for everyone. We’ve compiled a list of five of London’s most historic theatres: their histories are almost as dramatic as the plays they host, filled with fires, ghosts and feuds.

1. Shakespeare’s Globe

Shakespeare’s Globe is a 20th century reincarnation of the original 16th century Globe Theatre which was built by Shakespeare’s playing company, the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, in 1599. It is located in Southwark, on the banks of the River Thames.

Grab a £5 groundling ticket if you can face a marathon 3 hours standing to watch a play during the summer season, enjoy a drink at the bar on a summer’s evening or go on a tour of the theatre in the winter months – it’s fascinating and a great glimpse behind the scenes you would never otherwise get.

2. Theatre Royal, Drury Lane

The Theatre Royal, Drury Lane is the fourth incarnation of this theatre on the same spot, making it the oldest theatre site in London still in use. It remains a thriving cultural hub, staging productions of major musicals in more recent years.

Performances still take place almost nightly at the Theatre Royal – cheap on the day tickets can normally be found from booths around central London, or look online in advance if you want to plan a trip.

3. Royal Opera House

Home of the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet, Covent Garden’s Royal Opera House is one of England’s most iconic performing arts venues, and has an illustrious history.

The first theatre on this site was the Theatre Royal, Covent Garden, which was awarded letters patent by King Charles II in 1662: however, it was only actually built in the 18th century, following the financial success of  The Beggars’ Opera.  The new Theatre Royal opened in 1732 with a production entitled  The Way of the World. 

The ROH remains very much in operation, and tickets are still sought after in many cases. There are assorted performances with cheaper tickets (although some do involve standing seats) if you’d like to experience the magic of the inner auditorium they way it was intended – red velvet, lots of gilt and tremendous acoustics.

4. Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Sadler’s Wells was first opened by Richard Sadler in 1683 – London’s second public theatre to open following the restoration of King Charles II in 1660. It was originally a ‘musick house’, and the name stemmed from a spring found near by. Sadler claimed its iron-rich water could cure all manner of ills and as such, Sadler’s Wells began drawing a variety of clientele who wanted both the healing water and the music that the theatre offered.

The now sixth incarnation of the theatre remains an extremely popular venue, and hosts a wide variety of dance shows regularly – from contemporary fusion to traditional ballet. Tickets are sought after so it’s worth booking ahead if you’d like to catch a performance.

5. The Old Vic

The Old Vic was originally founded in 1818 by James King and Daniel Dunn. With the patronage of Princess Charlotte and Prince Leopold, it was named the Royal Coburg Theatre although without letters patent, it was technically forbidden to show serious drama but in 1824, legendary actor Edmund Kean performed six Shakespeare plays in six nights, bringing high art to the masses.

The Old Vic has regular performances – tickets often sell out far in advance so it’s worth being organised. There are normally a handful of cheap tickets for every performance, some of which are released on the day.

Kiln Theatre

All events at Kiln Theatre

The Ballad of Hattie and James

Peanut Butter & Blueberries

Kiln theatre location and directions.

Location: Fringe/Off West End Railway station: Brondesbury Bus numbers: 16, 32, 189, 332, 632 Night bus numbers: N16 Car park: Kilburn Market Car Park

About Kiln Theatre

The Kiln Theatre is located in Kilburn, North London. The theatre opened in a converted Forester’s Hall in 1980 and was formerly known as the Tricycle Theatre. In 1987 the theatre was almost totally destroyed by a fire which started in a neighbouring timber yard. Two years later, it was re-built and the front of house facilities were enhanced and expanded. After undergoing a major redevelopment, the theatre reopened in 2018 as the Kiln Theatre under Indhu Rubasingham's leadership.

Past events at Kiln Theatre

Blues in the Night

The Invisible Hand

Girl on an Altar

The Darkest Part of the Night

Reasons You Should(n’t) Love Me

The Wife of Willesden

Es & Flo

Mlima’s Tale

Two Strangers (carry a cake across New York)

Stay up-to-date

Kids Week is back for another year!  

A child 17 and under goes free when accompanied by an adult paying full price. Plus an additional two children can attend for half price.  

During Kids Week some shows will have activity sessions or interactive curtain calls before or after performances, so you can get even more out of your trip!  

Tickets go on sale at 10am on Tuesday 13 June , and participating shows will be announced closer to the time.  

Sign up to our family newsletter below to be the first to find out what shows will be participating in this year’s promotion! Plus follow us on social for updates –  Twitter ,   Facebook, TikTok  and   Instagram .  

What is Kids Week?  

Every year, for the whole of August, a child aged 17 or under can go to any available participating show for free as long as they’re accompanied by a full paying adult. Adults can also buy up to two extra children’s tickets at half price and there are no booking fees.  

Kids Week includes a wide variety of shows to choose from include London musicals , plays , comedies and children’s shows .

Kids Week tickets are the perfect way to introduce your whole family to theatre over the summer holidays – with great London shows and great value theatre tickets. We also have a programme of activities to get your kids more involved, as well as Kids Eat deals available at our partner restaurants.

If you’ve any queries, be sure to read our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page and if you’re looking to book tickets outside of Kids Week, visit our Theatre Tickets page , to discover a variety of London musicals, plays, operas, comedies and dance productions.

Tickets go on sale at 10am on Tuesday 13 June , check out participating shows below.  

This year, to help you choose, we’ve grouped shows so you can easily see what’s on for little kids and the shows suitable only for older teenagers.

The full calendar of dates will be available on 13 June but for those interested in the Kids Week activities, we’ve pulled together a list of when the activities take place so you can start planning!

If you are a customer with access requirements we have further information  here.

Between 17 July – 31 August, a child 17 and under goes free when accompanied by an adult paying full price to select performances. Plus an additional two children can attend for half price!

We have a number of activities to accompany certain performances during Kids Week. Look out for blue stars on the show’s calendar page or check out our activities page to see all activities on offer.  

We often get additional tickets and new shows added throughout the promotion, so it is always worth checking back regularly to see what we have. Or follow us on social for updates –  Twitter and   Facebook .

Kids Week is over for another year!

Kids Week 2023 has now ended, we’re so pleased so many of you could come and enjoy theatre with your children, many of you for the first time!

Sign up to our family newsletter below to be the first to find out about next year’s campaign. Plus you can follow us on social for all the latest updates  –  Twitter ,   Facebook, TikTok  and   Instagram .  

Every year, during the summer holidays, a child aged 17 or under can go to any available participating show for free as long as they’re accompanied by an adult paying full price. Adults can also buy up to two extra children’s tickets at half price and there are no booking fees.  

Kids Week tickets are the perfect way to introduce your whole family to theatre over the summer holidays – with great London shows and great value theatre tickets. We will also have a programme of activities to get your kids more involved.

What is Kids Week?

Every year, for the whole of August, a child aged 17 or under can go to any participating show for free where tickets are available as long as they’re accompanied by a full paying adult. Adults can also buy up to two extra children’s tickets at half price and there are no booking fees.

The wide variety of shows to choose from include London musicals , plays , comedies and children’s shows .

Unlike film, there is currently no official age classification organisation for theatre. All age recommendations are subjective and should be interpreted as guidelines unless otherwise stated. PG shows may contain mature themes and instances of strong language, violence, strobe or flashing lights, loud noises, scenes of a sexual nature, or frightening scenes. It's the responsibility of the patron to judge the show’s suitability in advance of purchase. We recommend contacting us at [email protected] if you are in any doubt.

What to see at London's first major festival of Taiwanese culture – from virtual reality to visual arts

B oasting dance shows, physical theatre performances, virtual reality experiences and visual art, London ’s first major festival of Taiwanese culture , which launches this Friday, is promising to be a real humdinger.

Playing out across 16 days, over 30 contemporary Taiwanese artists, musicians and creative will showcase their work for UK audiences – in many cases for the first time ever.

With so many exciting events taking place, here we’ve picked some of our top acts not to miss.

Anarchy Dance Theatre: Second Body, April 12-13

The inaugural festival is opening with this stellar act which premiered in Taiwan and was recently performed at Chroniques – Biennale of Digital Imagination in France. Award-winning dance collective Anarchy Dance Theatre use eye-boggling projection techniques to explore what it means to have and be a human body.

Cheng-Tsung Feng exhibition, April 12-27

Multi award-winning artist Cheng-Tsung Feng draws on traditional Taiwanese craft techniques, such as those used to make handmade bamboo fish traps, to build incredible large-scale installations. To celebrate London’s first Taiwanese culture festival, he is encasing the façade of the theatre with a specially commissioned work, which continues on inside.

All that Remains, April 12-27

This 360 VR experience from award-winning experimental company Riverbed Theatre premiered at Venice Film Festival in 2022. It asks questions about the micro and macro moments that make up the universe. By designing the piece to be watched through a VR headset, immersing viewers in their world, Riverbed playfully test the boundaries between what’s real and unreal.

Yujun Wang, April 16-17

Multidisciplinary musician Yujun Wang launches her new album, 明 Dawn to Dawn, with two nights of exciting performances. Wang, who was resident artist at the Treasure Hills Artists Village in Taipei, has collaborated with a number of artists over the years including Nick Cave. Her songs, a blend of various genres, incorporate field recordings and poetry.

Hung Dance: Birdy, April 19-20

This fantastic duet won the Audience Award for Best Choreography at Swiss international dance festival Tanzplattform Bern. Emotional and intense, performers Cheng I-han and Lee Kuan-lin explore ideas around metaphorical and physical cages using a pheasant tail feather. The object, which was often worn on helmets in traditional Chinese opera, transforms throughout the dance, becoming a sword, a headpiece, and an animate object.

Chou Kuan-Jou – Tomato, April 23-24

Dancer-choreographer Chou Kuan-Jou’s Tomato was a hit at the Edinburgh Fringe, where it was described by one reviewer as “a feast of thoughts, movement, and provocative action”, and by another as “very clever”. Using live performance and video, Chou Kuan-Jou explores sexuality, feminism and gender.

London Taiwanese Festival, The Coronet Theatre, April12-27; thecoronettheatre.com

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We can’t wait to see you in the magical Field of Dreams, just steps from Sonoma Plaza. Everything you need to know to plan your visit, you can find here! A portion of every ticket sold will be donated to the Field of Dreams to help upkeep the fields and support youth sports and recreation.

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