There are magical musicals (from Cole Porter to Andrew Lloyd Webber) as well as classics and the works of new playwrights. See your favourite stars centre stage… Nicole Kidman, Matthew Perry, Judi Dench and Ian MacKellan have all played here.
The heart of London’s theatreland is Shaftesbury Avenue. From Leicester Square to Covent Garden, there are dozens and dozens of theatres - many are listed buildings, architecturally fascinating, built in Victorian or Edwardian times. Among this feast for drama lovers, there’s a feast of good food, too. Hundreds of restaurants line the Soho streets, offering pre- theatre menus and late night entertainment.
If you’re a returning theatre lover then why not look further than the West End. All over the city, from Richmond to Hackney, fringe theatre surprises and delights - often at remarkably low prices. Try the recently-refurbished Hackney Empire and Royal Court Theatres, renowned for their excellent modern productions.
The other centre for drama is the South Bank complex where three theatres offer a varied programme from classic to contemporary. Nearby, Kevin Spacey is revitalising the Old Vic and for Shakespeare in his authentic setting, the Globe theatre must not be missed.
Must see and do
- Hampstead Theatre, Eaton Avenue, London
- The Palace Theatre, Shaftsbury Avenue, London
- UCL Bloomsbury Theatre, Gordon Street, London
- The Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street, London
- Theatre Royal Drurary Lane, Catherine Street, London
- National Film Theatre, South Bank, London
- Oviation Theatres, London