Attention, attention; calling all ye theater-goers and West End geeks!
There’s nothing quite like an evening of theatrics — especially when it’s at a show house in London’s iconic (and historic) theater district, home to some of the most revered venues of all time!
Developed over the centuries as an entertainment hotspot, if the city’s West End theaters had mouths to sing and act, imagine the stories they could tell.
Comprising 39 official theaters, visitors arrive from both near and far to catch a production, whether it’s a classical play, extravagant musical or even a variety show. A bucket lister for many, this is a compilation of the most popular West End theaters based on collective reviews and critiques.
Hosting world premiers and fresh-off-of-Broadway shows, enter auditoriums where some of the biggest stars have graced the stages, and other playhouses where kings and queens arrived to enjoy the spectacle.
Pondering what the latest West End productions are showing at the moment? Have a gander at this updated guide of the best West End shows and musicals to see right now. Regularly updated, scour the list and discover which performances most steal your heart.
All that’s left to do is book your West End tickets and prepare for the opening act!
1. Lyceum Theatre
As the first and only playhouse in London to ever showcase the magnificent, multiple award-winning production of The Lion King — since 1999! — thousands of visitors flock to the Lyceum Theatre every year.
A Grade II listed building; the groundbreaking musical certainly isn’t the Lyceum’s first rodeo, and it’s believed that its dramatic setting inspired some of the writings for the 1897 novel, Dracula, written by Bram Stoker (who ran the theater from 1878).
Formerly known as the English Opera House dating to the 18th century, the original building caught aflame. Fast forward to the 1830s and the new ‘Theatre Royal Lyceum & English Opera House’ came about.
Extra renovations took place in the early 1900s but it closed for a good few decades. Reigning in a new era, under the name ‘Lyceum Ballroom’ it introduced iconic bands like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Rolling Stones, Queen and Prince to its stage. In 1996 it received its last reinventions and was renamed to its current title.
Address: Wellington Street
Opened in: 1765
Capacity: 2,100
Past productions: Frankenstein; Hamlet; Jesus Christ Superstar; Oklahoma!
Current show: The Lion King
2. Prince of Wales Theatre
Gracing the showhouse with his presence in 2004 for a reopening fit for royalty, the Prince of Wales Theatre was named after His Royal Highness — but, it certainly was not its first opening act!
Built in the 1880s (with design by architect C.J. Phipps), it’s one of a strew of iconic buildings still standing its ground since the 19th century — although it’s another site that has experienced renovations since then.
Highlighting French revue-style productions in its earliest hay days until around 1937, it was at this period when the theater underwent its first refurbishing. When the French follies died out, the theater began to host musicals and plays.
Under new management with Delfont Mackintosh Theatres, in 2003 the space was redone once more, changing its first name from simply the ‘Prince’s Theatre.’
For the golden treatment, book a Champagne or VIP Package for the night!
Address: Coventry Street
Opened in: 1884
Capacity: 1,148
Past productions: Dorothy; Funny Girl; Aspects of Love; Mamma Mia!
Current show: The Book of Mormon
3. Her Majesty’s Theatre
With more name changes than you could keep count of (for each time a new royal member was elected as head of the sovereign), Her Majesty’s Theatre is as historic as it is iconic, operating for over 300 years!
But not to fear serious theater-goers; flashforward to the 2020s and the playhouse is equipped with modernized technologies and adaptations to keep up with the times.
The West End’s second oldest theater first operated as ‘The Queen’s’ in 1705 with the opening of a dramatic opera. Name changing to ‘The King’s Theatre’ in 1714, the initial venue, unfortunately, burned to the ground in 1789. Revived in 1791, it became ‘Her Majesty’s Theatre’ in 1837 — yet another fire struck in 1867, and then a new building was built!
In 1892, the theater was torn down and under new ownership, its current home was constructed by 1897. Talk about fascinating times … one is only left to imagine the celebs and royals who have swept its halls.
Notably so, The Phantom of the Opera musical by Andrew Llyod Webber has showcased here since 1986, officially deeming it the longest-running musical in theater history!
Address: Haymarket Street
Opened in: 1705
Capacity: 1,216
Past productions: Oliver Twist; West Side Story; Fiddler on the Roof
Current show: The Phantom of the Opera
4. Theatre Royal Drury Lane
First things first; the Theatre Royal Drury Lane is ceremoniously the oldest-standing theater in all of London — dating back to the 1600s!
Endearingly shortened to “Drury Lane”, or simply “The Lane”, its primary function acts as a showhouse for musicals and plays, but it also plays host to mega concerts in the arts and entertainment world, simultaneously housing both at a given time.
Surviving for as long as it has does mean it’s undergone rebuildings and renovations to its original site, but much of its former glory has been restored.
In fact, apart from the musicals and plays to watch, you can enjoy a guided tour around the monumental space. Plus, visit the Cecil Beaton Bar to truly feel like you’ve traveled back hundreds of years ago.
Address: Catherine Street
Opened in: 1663
Capacity: 1,993
Past productions: Camelot; Sweeney Todd; The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas; Pirates of Penzance; Miss Saigon; The Witches of Eastwick
Current show: Frozen
Coming soon: The Rest Is History: Live; An Evening with Chris De Burgh
5. Piccadilly Theatre
In the heart of the West End (and amongst the buildings comprising the famed Piccadilly Circus square), the Piccadilly Theatre rose to popularity when it became the first-ever venue to showcase a “talking picture” film.
Whilst its first production was indeed a musical, the venue focused on movie screenings for its initial years, until it converted into a cabaret house.
After world wars and refurbishments, the decades following the 1950s unfolded into plays, musicals, revues, variety shows and even ballet performances, including Swan Lake.
Other notable accolades in its repertoire are composed of first-ever performances for smash-hit plays entering the UK scene (such as Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire), and revered idols in the industry like Dame Judi Dench and Sir Ian McKellen wooing audiences.
Heck, even The Beatles utilized the venue for album recordings, and multiple Royal Shakespeare Company productions have showcased here too.
Address: Denman Street
Opened in: 1928
Capacity: 1,232
Past productions: Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?; Ghost the Musical; Jersey Boys; Annie
Current show: Moulin Rouge!
6. Apollo Theatre
Flinging open its British doors at the turn of the 19th century, it seems apt that the grand Apollo Theatre was originally home to lavish Edwardian-style musicals and opera nights.
Inspired by Greek mythology, revel in the past as you step inside, and even in the 21st century, the golden statues of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures and its Renaissance-inspired painted ceiling still ring true to its origins.
Named after Apollo, the son of Zeus and god of art and poetry, the last 120-odd years have seen award-winning musicals, plays and other entertainment shows hit its stage.
Designed by architect Lewin Sharp, the showhouse has since undergone restorations to the three-level venue, and it was purchased in 2005 by the Nimax Theatres group.
Address: Shaftesbury Avenue
Opened in: 1901
Capacity: 658
Past productions: The Glass Menagerie; Rain Man, Travesties; Everybody’s Talking About Jamie; The Upstart Crow
Current show: Derren Brown – SHOWMAN
Coming soon: For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When the Hue Gets Too Heavy
7. Adelphi Theatre
Rumored to be haunted by a former actor who was tragically stabbed by his rival when he entered the theater back in 1897, its stories and art deco features make the Adelphi spectacularly interesting.
Co-owned by Andrew Lloyd Webber and the Nederlander Group, the original Sans Pareil (as it was first titled) was bought by an affluent businessman for his daughter-turned-performer-turned-theater manager, Jane Scott.
At the time, this caused a stir on the West End scene as the family wasn’t known in the theater world — just yet. However, that all changed when Scott revolutionized British theater at the time, opening the way for all classes of society to enjoy a night out on the West End — and not just for audiences from elite circles.
Since then it has held the stage for emotional melodramas, pantomimes, operas, musicals and plays, and the showhouse has retained its 1930s charm (when its last pivotal reconstruction occurred).
Among its most notable productions include Chicago. During its time here, it became the longest-running American musical on the West End.
Address: The Strand
Opened in: 1806
Capacity: 1,500
Past productions: Chicago, Evita; Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; Sweeney Todd; Waitress; Kinky Boots
Current show: Back to the Future: The Musical
8. Palace Theatre
A permanent home to the multiple-award-winning Harry Potter production since debuting on the West End scene in 2016; the alluring red-brick building of the Palace Theatre is a fitting locale, slightly reminiscent of a Hogwarts structure.
The ‘Royal English Opera House’ was its given name when it was commissioned by its first owner, Richard D’Oyly Carte. With the changing of the times, and opera fading out, the venue wasn’t an instant success. Later, it was sold off, reopening as the Palace Theatre in 1911, becoming a prime stage for hit musicals over the years.
For more than 19 years, Les Miserables has shown at the Palace, and the theater was bought over by the Nimax Theatres group in 2012.
Address: Shaftesbury Avenue
Opened in: 1891
Capacity: 1,400
Past productions: No, No, Nanette; Jesus Christ Superstar; Les Miserables
Current show: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
9. Harold Pinter Theatre
Renamed (in 2011) after legendary Nobel Prize winner, British playwright, actor, director and screenwriter, Harold Pinter, the former Comedy Theatre is a fabulous place to investigate old-school theaters — as not much change has (purposefully) been altered to the original auditorium.
Designed by Thomas Verity in 1881 (and first marked as the Royal Comedy Theatre), admire the foundational architecture like its light stucco stone and brick exteriors.
As one can imagine, from the time the playhouse doors opened, productions involving comedic elements have stood at the theater’s core. Favoring the unusual; showcasing avant-garde-type plays were not uncommon.
Fun fact: In 1956, the New Watergate Theatre club moved from the demolished Watergate Theatre to the Harold Pinter up until the 1960s. It was here that banned plays were performed on stage, such as Tennessee Williams’ Cat On A Hot Tin Roof.
Fun fact #2: Many of Pinter’s works have showcased at the old Comedy Theatre, from the likes of Moonlight to No-Man’s Land.
Address: Panton Street
Opened in: 1881
Capacity: 796
Past productions: The Rocky Horror Show; Sunny Afternoon; Merrily We Roll Along; Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?; Hamlet
Current show: Lemons, Lemons, Lemons, Lemons, Lemons
Coming soon: A Little Life
10. Lyric Theatre
Since its first inception as an opera house, the esteemed Lyric Theatre has promoted music at its core, with notable musicals throughout the years hitting its stage, with odes to Bob Marley, MJ and more!
Owning the title of the oldest survivor of theater houses on Shaftesbury Avenue, little has been done to its primary design features — adding half the charm anyway.
Sporting four levels and original architecture fit for a night at the opera, its design has that typical curved style.
A note when booking seats: As the theater boasts an untouched old-worldly design, some seating is obscured by its towering pillars. Make sure you double-check your stage views when purchasing tickets.
Address: Shaftesbury Avenue
Opened in: 1888
Capacity: 1,061
Past productions: The Seagull; Thriller – Live; Cabaret; SIX the Musical; Get Up, Stand Up!
Current show: 2:22 A Ghost Story
Coming soon: Aspects of Love
11. Prince Edward Theatre
Calibrating a list of some of the best musicals to hit the stage in the 21st century, the Prince Edward Theatre has always been a forefront running host when it comes to this form of theater.
From Evita to Mamma Mia, the smash hits have poured in over the years, and from 1993, the showhouse became a dedicated musical theater. In fact, the first show to ever grace its stage in early 1930 was a musical comedy
It wasn’t always this way though, and the next 20-odd years saw pantomimes, cabaret shows and international variety shows set the tone — undergoing a few name changes in the process.
Utilized from the 50s to the 70s as a cinema house, the original art deco-style building with its extravagant gold finishings returned once more to what it does best in 1978. Acquired by Delfont Mackintosh Theatres in 1992, it underwent a grand makeover to its stage and auditorium.
Address: Old Compton Street
Opened in: 1930
Capacity: 1,727
Past productions: Mamma Mia!; Mary Poppins; Jersey Boys; Miss Saigon; Aladdin
Current show: Ain’t Too Proud
Coming soon: MJ
12. Savoy Theatre
Did you know that the Savoy Theatre was the first-ever public building … in the entire world … to be powered by, and lit up by electricity, more accurately, the electric lightbulb?!
Pioneering productions and theatrical norms, still to do this day the show house prides itself on unveiling modern productions.
Appointed to favored West End architect at the time, C. J. Phipps, when the theater first opened its extravagant doors, it was considered one of the most beautiful theaters in Europe, and the first of its kind — literally.
No less than 50 years after opening, the Victorian-style auditorium was renovated, and then again in 1990.
Address: Savoy Court
Opened in: 1881
Capacity: 1,158
Past productions: Dreamgirls; 9 to 5 Musical; Legally Blonde
Current show: Pretty Woman: The Musical
13. Aldwych Theatre
Travel back in time with a night out at the Aldwych Theatre thanks to its latest restoration efforts in 2017, purposefully reinstating the building’s original features like its opulent marble walls and lavishly decorated plasterwork.
(Plus, a few modern amenities were added to enhance the audience’s experience including a new surround-sound system and seating.)
In its earliest days, it was one of the top London theaters to catch a farce-type production (i.e. a dramatic comedy), gaining so much popularity these shows became known as “The Aldwych Farces.”
The 1930s to 50s set the scene for performances by The Royal Shakespeare Company (who eventually took over ownership of the theater before it was sold to its current owners, Nederlander Theatres), becoming thee place to witness a Shakespearean drama or play.
Address: 49 Aldwych
Opened in: 1905
Capacity: 1,200
Past productions: Top Hat; Wolf Hall/Bring Up The Bodies; Beautiful: The Carole King Musical; La Soirée
Current show: Tina—The Tina Turner Musical
14. Wyndham’s Theatre
When well-known English actor and theater proprietor, Sir Charles Wyndham decided to open up his own theater of his dreams, the Wyndham’s Theatre was born, named after the man himself.
Adopting the design and architectural style known as the “Louis XVI style” (after the last official reigning monarch and king of France), it fuses Baroque and French Neoclassicism influences.
As a classic show house, over the last 120-plus years the theater has set the stage for all types of productions, from crime plays to comedies to satirical pieces to classic musicals.
After Delfont Mackintosh Theatres acquired Wyndham’s in 2005, the company renovated the four-level auditorium three years later (in 2008).
Address: Charing Cross Road
Opened in: 1899
Capacity: 799
Past productions: Sunday in the Park with George; No Man’s Land; Godspell, Art; Leopoldstadt; Life of Pi
Current show: Oklahoma!
15. Garrick Theatre
If you’re in the mood for a night of light-hearted wit, or tummy-clenching moments induced by fits of laughter, chances are the Garrick Theatre has something to tickle your fancy.
Since its earliest days, the playhouse has been dubbed a hotspot for comedic shows on the West End, and for most of its years, it has showcased classical plays — with a few musicals in between.
Believe it or not, when the Garrick was idealized, its first owner W.S. Gilbert commissioned Walter Emden, with the help of C. J. Phipps to design the theater with the idea of presenting melodramas (which he so favored). So much so, he named the theater after famous Shakespearean actor, David Garrick.
After one year of opening toward the turn of the 19th, the first (French-style) comedy opened on stage and was an instant success. The rest is history …
Address: Charing Cross Road
Opened in: 1889
Capacity: 735
Past productions: No Sex Please, We’re British; One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest; Horrible Histories; Young Frankenstein; The Drifters Girl
Current show: Orlando
Coming soon: Bonnie & Clyde
16. Victoria Palace Theatre
They say when a show arrives at this London West End theater it stays around for a while, notably so; like most of its productions throughout its 112-year-old history.
From variety shows to melodramas to plays to musicals; the performances (and the performers) at the Victory Palace Theatre have always been successful hits.
Built by Frank Matcham (a revered theater architect in the late 19th and early 20th centuries), the venue was bought by Sir Stephen Waley-Cohen in 1991 and then sold to its current proprietor, Delfont Mackintosh Theatres.
Under both holds, the Victoria lived through two more refurbishings, the last one over a 20-month period from 2014.
Look out for the golden replica statue of the famous ballerina, Anna Pavlova. The original once stood in the theater but was lost in World War II when it was moved from the house.
Address: Shaftesbury Avenue
Opened in: 1911
Capacity: 1,557
Past productions: Annie; Kiss me Kate; Billy Elliot
Current show: Hamilton
17. Apollo Victoria Theatre
Flashback to the explosive era of picture palaces (over-the-top stylized movie theaters that began popping up between the 1910s and 1940s), the Apollo Victoria Theatre was erected at the peak of this boom.
In fact, from the off-set it was specifically designed as a grand cinematic house and from 1930 until the 70s this served as its primary purpose.
This had its advantages … converted into a theater in 1981, unlike many of the venues that were constructed as a playhouse, the Apollo Victoria is much larger and is one of the bigger London theaters.
Its distinctive art deco design elements make this one another stand out from the crowd, with neon light features dripping from the ceiling and the Charlie Chaplin wall engraving. It was imagined and brought to life thanks to E. Wamsley Lewis and remains one of the most unique theaters on the West End.
The multiple-award-winning production of Wicked debuted in London at the Apollo Victoria Theatre where it has run ever since.
Address: 17 Wilton Road
Opened in: 1930
Capacity: 2,328
Past productions: The Sound of Music; Camelot; Fiddler on the Roof; Starlight Express; Saturday Night Fever
Current show: Wicked
18. Gillian Lynne Theatre
Transforming from saloon to music hall to theater house, the Gillian Lynne Theatre has forever stood tall among artists and performers, and some believe it was a gathering place for the first-ever glee clubs in the early 18th century.
Enduring multiple name changes, owners and rebuilds; the Great Mogul, Mogul Saloon, The Middlesex Music Hall, The Winter Garden and the New London Theatre are some of the titles it has gone by.
Then, in 2018, the theater created waves in the UK industry when it switched titles to the Gillian Lynne, deeming it the first-ever West End theater named after a woman. (Lynne was a well-known English theater choreographer, actress, ballerina, dance and theater/television director).
Staging mostly plays, Andrew Lloyd Webber changed all that when his company took over the theater, channeling the venue into a musical theater hotspot.
Address: 166 Drury Lane
Opened in: 1847
Capacity: 1,300
Past productions: Grease; Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; Cats; War Horse
Current show: The Lehman Trilogy
Coming soon: Crazy For You
19. London Palladium
From the most successful variety shows in London theater history (even arguably so, around the globe) to splendid pantos in the 1960s to smash-hit musicals just before the 70s until today; the London Palladium has seen it all.
Composing some of the greatest musicals of the 21st century, the entertainment house is another theater owned by genius Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Its further impressive recognitions include hosting the annual Royal Variety Performance (before it was televised) for ten years, from 1928 to 1938.
Since its beginnings, it has stayed true to the performances that put the venue on the map. Adapting the stage and set designs to not only keep up with the times but to accommodate the performances, innovative technologies are often employed.
Address: Argyll Street
Opened in: 1910
Capacity: 2,286
Past productions: The King and I; Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; Cinderella; Snow White; Fiddler on the Roof
Current show: Luther – A Luther Vandross Celebration; Daniel Sloss: Can’t
Coming soon: The Wizard of Oz; Tailenders; Alan Carr: Regional Trinket; Gosh! It’s Gyles & Judi & All The Dames!
20. Cambridge Theatre
The Cambridge Theatre is one of the West End’s venues that has forever been favored for its smaller setting, savored by intimate plays and shows.
But, that doesn’t mean it hasn’t seen its fair share of mega stars grace its stage from the likes of Audrey Hepburn to Joan Collins.
Although already nearly 100 years old, at its time of construction it was one of the latest theaters on the West End block. Designed in a rectangular shape, the three-level auditorium is pretty unique — just look up at the cylindrical blue rooftop to glimpse why.
Whilst it was monopolized as a movie theater for some years, it’s always gone back to its musical roots. Matilda The Musical has been staged here since 2011.
Address: Earlham Street
Opened in: 1930
Capacity: 1,200
Past productions: Peter Pan – The British Musical; Fame; Chicago; Grease; Our House
Current show: Matilda The Musical
21. Vaudeville Theatre
You guessed it … With a name like that, you can’t help but imagine the type of productions that the Vaudeville Theatre first showcased back in the 1870s. And yes, you are right, they were vaudeville-type shows!
(Hailing from France and popular in the entertainment world from the mid-late 19th century to the 1920s, these performances aimed to provide commentary for the middle-class citizen through the use of song, dance, comedy, acrobatics and even magic.)
Although the theater was rebuilt twice since its opening, the architects ensured to preserve some of the building’s original features, from old-school stage mechanics to lightning sheets to its ornate ceilings.
First designed by renowned theater architect, C.J. Phipps, the venue space is a prime example of both Romanesque and Adamesque design. The last updates to the theater were in 1926.
Address: 404 The Strand
Opened in: 1870
Capacity: 690
Past productions: Ladykillers; The Importance of Being Earnest; Emilia; Magic Goes Wrong
Current show: SIX
22. Dominion Theatre
As the Great Depression rolled in, the Dominion Theatre didn’t have the most successful start as a theater, but choosing to screen films was one of its greatest moves.
Constructed on the grounds of a former funfair and brewery, the William and T.R Millburn-designed theater opened with just two musicals showcasing here before the building turned into a cinematic experience and home of the “talkies” in the West End.
Moving from the era of silent movies to talking pictures, the 50s onwards brought in plenty of success as the auditorium began screening musical films like The Sound of Music. To keep up with the times, in the 70s it was converted into a music venue, holding the stage for the likes of David Bowie, Bon Jovi and Van Morrison.
Taking note of its triumph, the 80s onwards began its reign of hit musicals on stage. Obtained by the Nederlander Group in the 90s, since then the Dominion has hosted some of the biggest musical masterpieces!
Address: Tottenham Court Road
Opened in: 1929
Capacity: 2,163
Past productions: Beauty and the Beast; Grease; We Will Rock You; Frozen; An American in Paris
Current show: Dirty Dancing
Coming soon: Grease the Musical
23. Novello Theatre
Home of the megahit musical, Mamma Mia! for more than 10 years, the Novello Theatre has hosted every type of production from comedies to tragedies, farce-style shows to operas to musicals …
Premiering at the theater for the very first time, No Sex Please – We’re British enjoyed a massively successful 11-year-run here.
The Royal Shakespeare Company entered the scene from 2005 until 2007 where classics like Twelfth Night, The Comedy of Errors, Much Ado About Nothing and Anthony and Cleopatra wowed audiences.
Renamed after Welsh actor, singer and composer Ivor Novello — who lived above the theater for 40 years — it started out as the Waldorf Theatre, changing to its last former title in 1913 (the Strand) before it became the Novello in 2005.
Address: 39-45 Shaftesbury Avenue
Opened in: 1905
Capacity: 1,146
Past productions: The Rat Pack; Cat on a Hot Tin Roof; A Midsummer Night’s Dream; Betty Blue Eyes
Current show: Mamma Mia!
24. Duke of York’s Theatre
One of the great things about the Duke of York’s Theatre is that it puts on multiple plays in a month, and although the productions don’t have the longest runs, there is always something new on.
Fit for a king — true story — the playhouse was (re)named in 1895 from its original title (known as Trafalgar Square Theatre) to the Duke of York’s Theatre in reverence of the Duke, and future King of England, George V.
Even he agreed, proclaiming that “it is a right royal building with a theatrical tradition fit for a King.”
From acclaimed shows like King Lear to iconic audience members like Giacomo Puccini to famed stars on its stage like Orlando Bloom and Sir Ian McKellen, the three-level auditorium always delivers a stellar show.
Address: 104 St Martin’s Lane
Opened in: 1892
Capacity: 640
Past productions: The Dresser; Rock ‘n’ Roll ; Doctor Faustus; King Lear; The Glass Menagerie
Current show: Mother Goose
Coming soon: Much Ado About Nothing; Shirley Valentine; The Pillowman
25. Playhouse Theatre
Specifically renamed to the ‘Kit Kat Club’ for its run of the iconic and ever-sultry production of Cabaret, the Playhouse Theatre is one of the West End theaters that has never been left abandoned.
Here’s some fun theatrical history: the Kit Kat Club was founded in London in the 17th century by a group of literary men. Then, released in 1966, Cabaret features the Kit Kat Club dating to the Jazz Age. Circa 1994, Berlin opens up the famous Kit Kat Club night disco where anything is possible and everyone is welcome …
Now, the entire Playhouse has metamorphosed to replicate the iconic club from Cabaret!
Acquired by Ambassador Theatre Group from Maidstone Productions in 2003, the venue is favored by companies that advocate imaginative productions.
Address: Northumberland Avenue
Opened in: 1882
Capacity: 786
Past productions: 1984; An Inspector Calls; Fiddler on the Roof; The Seagull
Current show: Cabaret
26. Shaftesbury Theatre
Opening its iconic doors with a production of ‘The Three Musketeers’, many of the greatest West End theater (and Broadway) shows have made their debut at the Shaftesbury Theatre — a venue not afraid to step outside of the norm.
In its repertoire of firsts, it’s held the stage for many world premieres, West End debuts from Broadway, and remains the biggest independent theater in the West End (owned by the Theatre of Comedy Company).
Not afraid of a pièce de résistance — not including the usual spew of musicals or plays — the venue holds the space for other special variety shows like ‘The Music of Harry Potter’ and ‘Lord of the Rings: The Concert.’
Modern updates have been amended to the theater formerly known as the Prince’s Theatre.
Address: 210 Shaftesbury Avenue
Opened in: 1911
Capacity: 1,416
Past productions: Hair; Memphis; Hairspray; Motown
Current show: & Juliet
Coming soon: Mrs. Doubtfire
27. Sondheim Theatre
Theatergoers; make sure you don’t confuse the Sondheim Theatre on the West End with the Stephen Sondheim Theatre on Broadway in NYC!
(The Broadway venue opened in 2009, and the original Queen’s Theatre in London was renamed the Sondheim in 2019. Both are named after the legendary composer, Stephen Sondheim.)
When first constructed, the Queen’s was titled after Queen Alexandra and decked out in classic Italian Renaissance design. It was, in fact, built as a twin theater alongside the Gielgud Theatre (formerly known as the Hicks Theatre). After it was bombed during WWII, it was renovated with a more modern look.
Since then, more modern refurbishments have been added, the last one in 2009 under its new ownership, Delfont Mackintosh Theatres.
Les Misérables has held the stage at the Sondheim Theatre since 2004!
Address: Shaftesbury Avenue
Opened in: 1907
Capacity: 1,137
Past productions: Othello; Passion; Lady in the Van
Current show: Les Misérables
28. Duchess Theatre
Don’t be fooled by the smaller setting of the Duchess Theatre, which unlike many of the other extravagant and over-the-top theaters completed in the 1920s was designed with a proscenium arch, and there are no side-of-house boxes curving the edges of the venue.
But this comes with a heavy advantage and no matter your seat, from every angle it promises frontal views of the stage.
Envisioned by architect Ewen Barr, for the times the theater design was unlike any other on the West End, and it’s one of the smaller auditoriums in the famous London theater district.
Housing both musicals and plays, oftentimes shows are transferred to the Duchess Theatre for extra runs. Modern variety shows are showcased here too.
Address: 3-5 Catherine Street
Opened in: 1929
Capacity: 494
Past productions: Oh! Calcutta!; The Dirtiest Show in Town; Untold Stories; Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story
Current show: The Play That Goes Wrong
29. Gielgud Theatre
Erected alongside the Sondheim Theatre as a pair of theaters on Shaftesbury Avenue, the stage house first operated as the Hicks Theatre for just three short years before changing to the Globe in 1909.
When the famous Shakespeare’s Globe theater opened up in London, this playhouse transformed into the Gielgud Theatre in 1994.
Forward 12 years later and Delfont Mackintosh Theatres acquires the venue.
With a string of musicals, comedy plays, dramas and satire-centered writes, the distinguished theater house has always enjoyed a successful run in 120-something-years of business.
Address: Shaftesbury Avenue
Opened in: 1906
Capacity: 994
Past productions: Lettice and Lovage; Hamlet; The Graduate; All’s Well That Ends Well; The Curious Incident of the Dog; The Audience; Equus
Current show: To Kill a Mockingbird
30. Theatre Royal Haymarket
Ladies and gentlemen; introducing the historic Theatre Royal Haymarket — one of the oldest theaters in London, where countless Queens and famous writers (hello, Oscar Wilde) have sat in its chairs, and some of the biggest names in entertainment have acted on its stage, take Dame Maggie Smith for one.
Over the course of 300 years in existence, the theater has experienced multiple ownerships, name changes and undertakings, always keeping up with the time.
Setting out as the Haymarket Theatre, it was affectionately known as the “Little Theatre in the Hay”. Undergoing renovations twice in the 1800s, its famous golden stalls were erected — which still remain today — and it’s been classified as a Grade I building.
The Haymarket also offers a Masterclass Programme for aspiring actors and theater heads.
Address: 18 Suffolk Street
Opened in: 1720
Capacity: 893
Past productions: Waiting for Godot; Flare Path; The Tempest
Current show: Only Fools and Horses – The Musical;
Coming soon: Petrushevskaya’s Cabaret; The Tiger Who Came to Tea
31. Criterion Theatre
A few factors contribute to setting Criterion Theatre apart from the rest. It’s one of the few independently-owned theaters left on the West End, and is among a handful of venues that opted for an alternative design — the main entrance sits on ground level, but to enter the theater, the rest was built underground, even the Upper Circle seats!
The Grade II-listed building was designed by Thomas Verity, and only once construction was underway were the plans changed for the site from concert hall to theater.
1875 saw the arrival of Charles Wyndham at “the Cri” who undoubtedly helped put the theater on the map as one of the hottest places in town to catch a comedy, and still to this day, comedic acts and farces rule strong.
(Wyndham left the playhouse in 1899 to build his own; Wyndham’s Theatre.)
Throughout the decades, renovations have been made to the Criterion, and it’s currently in a restoration project.
Address: 218-223 Piccadilly
Opened in: 1874
Capacity: 590
Past productions: Waiting For Godot; 39 Steps; The Comedy About A Bank Robbery
Current show: The Unfriend
Coming soon: April Foolery
32. Trafalgar Theatre
Forget about heavily plush interiors and bright red seating plans; a night at Trafalgar Theatre transports its audiences in an instant to a time when the era of art deco raged through Britain at the start of the 20th century (until around the 1930s).
Although when originally built as the Whitehall Theatre, it did feature your typical red chairs, the rest of the building was “out there” for its time. In massive efforts to restore its former art deco glories, the showhouse was recently refurbished, fusing modernity with classic art deco elements.
Bold geometry and over-the-top details have been employed, yet the new design still pays homage to its original, using the same patterns for example. It even stands out in the 21st century, thanks to its new monochromatic palette and pops of bright green.
Reigning in comedy plays, burlesque shows, follies, revues and farces until the 1990s, in 2004 the Whitehall was bought out and converted into Trafalgar Studios. The original venue was split into Studio 1 and Studio 2.
Then, in 2020 it changed its name to its current title, Trafalgar Theatre.
Address: 14 Whitehall
Opened in: 1930
Capacity: 630
Past productions: Othello; Macbeth; Equus; On Blueberry Hill
Current show: Jersey Boys
33. @sohoplace
Newbie @sohoplace has been making waves in the theater world, recently opening in 2022 as the first theater to have been built in the West End in over 50 years!
Even its name is unlike any theater before it; a trajectory for the 21st century and the digital age.
As you can imagine with any new building designed today, the theater boasts modern-day elements of theater and set design such as its top-of-the-range acoustics and even a greenscreen room.
This auditorium has a specific curved seating plan, and that includes the seats on the ground floor. Balcony seats are also not so far away from the stage that you can’t see anything, with single rows only on each level. Deliberately planned out this way, no matter your seat you’re guaranteed a great angle of the stage in the super intimate setting.
@sohoplace is run by Nimax Theatres under the ownership of Nica Burns.
Address: 4 Soho Place
Opened in: 2022
Capacity: 602
Past productions: NA
Current show: As You Like It
Coming soon: Medea
34. St Martin’s Theatre
Now in its whopping (immense) 70th year of showcasing The Mousetrap, St Martin’s Theatre has housed the murder mystery play by Agatha Christie since the 70s, officially marking it as the longest-continuous running play around the globe in the history of the theater!
Interiors are typical of the playhouses built in the early 20th century, comprising dark woods, burgundy fabric seats and even baluster railings, and stylized carpets throughout.
Fashioned by theater architect, W. G. R. Sprague, St Martin’s is still a family-run show. First commissioned by Lord Willoughby de Broke — alongside B. A. (Bertie) Meyer and Richard Verney — the present Lord Willoughby de Broke and his family still own the playhouse.
Grade II listed, the theater has favored classic plays, whether involving drama or comedy.
Address: West Street
Opened in: 1916
Capacity: 552
Past productions: Berkeley Square; The Bear; Beware Of The Dog
Current show: The Mousetrap
35. Fortune Theatre
Claiming titles as the second-smallest theater on the West End, and the first one built after World War I ended, the Fortune Theatre has also stood proudly as one of London’s oldest-surviving public buildings sporting an exterior facade made completely out of concrete!
But wait, there’s more. Its long-time run of the horror-themed play adaption, The Woman in Black, has been showcased on stage since 1989, officially dubbing it the second longest-running play on the West End after The Mousetrap.
On the note of horrors, the playhouse first opened its doors operating as the Fortune Thriller Theatre. Aptly titled, it has staged plays and performances that touch on the eerie, darker side of life, even rumored to have ghosts that haunt the venue …
You might need to ask some of its actors about that one though, like Dame Judy Dench!
The architect, Ernest Schaufelberg, was employed to create the theater in the Italianate-architecture style, which weirdly originated in Britain and was based on inspirations from the Renaissance era.
Address: Russell Street
Opened in: 1924
Capacity: 432
Past productions: Day After Tomorrow; Nunsense; Dangerous Obsession
Current show: The Woman in Black; Something Rhymes with Purple
Coming soon: Operation Mincemeat
36. Arts Theatre
Did you know that up until 1969 (when the law finally gave way), the majority of plays and shows in London were first screened by the Lord Great Chamberlain for censorship reasons?
Never afraid to push the boundaries, the Arts Theatre was a pioneering theater of London, initially starting out as a members-only club where unofficiated plays set the tone on stage.
Remaining an independent theater still to this day, the West End’s smallest venue formally joined the official London theater district in 2000.
Since its beginnings, it has held a space for creatives and artists. Within the venue, guests can enjoy Live Piano Party Sessions in the Covent Garden Social Club, or grab delicious handcrafted cocktails beforehand at the Covent Garden Cocktail Club.
Address: Great Newport Street
Opened in: 1927
Capacity: 350
Past productions: Another Country; The Vagina Monologues; In White America; Elegies; Six; Bonnie and Clyde
Current show: The Choir of Man
37. Noël Coward Theatre
Rechristened after the beloved English playwright, director, actor, singer, composer and West End star who adorned its stage himself multiple times, the Noël Coward Theatre has endured a successful past.
Starting out as the New Theatre in the early 20th century, 1973 saw some change come about and the theater became known as the Albery. Finally, it settled on its latest; Noël Coward Theatre.
(In 2005, the playhouse also changed its ownership from Ambassador Theatre Group to Delfont Mackintosh Theatres.)
Set design and venue features are often revamped and modified to suit the current showing.
Sporting three levels, there are three bars with easy access, located in the Stalls area, Royal Circle/Stalls level and in the Grand Circle level.
Address: 39-45 Shaftesbury Avenue
Opened in: 1903
Capacity: 942
Past productions: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; Oliver!; Avenue Q; Photograph 51; Half a Sixpence
Current show: Best of Enemies
Coming soon: The Great British Bake Off Musical; Patriots
38. Phoenix Theatre
Theater boffs; If you’re traveling to London and simply are looking for a West End venue to explore and appreciate with old-worldly grand charm and presenting a feeling of traveling back in time, the ornate Phoenix Theatre should be added to the top of your lists.
The striking auditorium was designed like that of the traditional Italian theaters from way back when — cue the royal red carpets and seats, and the walls and ceiling tops etched in gold. Lest you forget about its neoclassical facade!
Maggie Smith, Noël Coward, John Gielgud, Dustin Hoffman and Stephen Fry are just a touch of the stars that have appeared here on stage.
Designed by Giles Gilbert Scott, Bertie Crewe and Cecil Masey, the theater is owned by the Ambassador Theatre Group.
Address: Charing Cross Road
Opened in: 1930
Capacity: 1,012
Past productions: Private Lives; Into the Woods; Blood Brothers; Chicago; Dirty Dancing; Come From Away
Current show: Noises Off
39. Ambassadors Theatre
Part of a string of West End theaters that favor a personalized experience with its smaller auditorium design, the Ambassadors Theatre is considered one of the most compact locales in the city’s theater district.
Due to its size, the show house has always preferred smaller-scale productions, particularly celebrating quintessential plays, but recent years have made way for musicals.
Designed by the architect W.G.R. Sprague and constructed next to its sister theater, St. Martin’s, the two-level arrangement suits its cozy atmosphere.
Notable productions include The Mousetrap (where the iconic play premiered to London audiences for the very first time in 1952).
Address: West Street
Opened in: 1913
Capacity: 444
Past productions: Stomp; Stones In His Pockets; Little Shop of Horrors; Sweeney Todd; Ghost Stories
Current show: My Son’s a Queer (But What Can You Do?)
Coming soon: Vardy V Rooney: The Wagatha Christie Trial
Final thoughts
A trip to a West End theater is hard to beat for those searching for cultural endeavors in London, offering something different to do from the usual tourist sightseeing.
Whether you’re a regular theater-goer or a new kid on the block, witnessing a production at any one of these show houses not only dazzles but mesmerizes audiences.
Plus, anytime you break free from technology and get the chance to see a live performance is instantly a magical feeling, so take advantage whilst you’re in the capital city. Review our list of West End musicals and shows in London, frequently updated every couple of months to keep up with the latest performances on stage.
Three, two, one and enjoy the show!