Theater in London: Playhouses
By Amelia
London is the epicenter of theater in today’s modern world. No doubt about that. It is an event that is not only valued by British society but a rip roaring good time. That being said there is a theater for everyone in London boasting a variety of top quality shows and various pre and post show scenes for all price ranges. So in no particular order, lets discuss the best of London’s regional playhouses, and marvel at the affordability and accessibility!
The National Theatre sits regally on the south bank in all its austerity. Do not be fooled, inside those foreboding concrete walls hold some of the biggest names and biggest budgets in London. Their season ranges from reimagined Shakespeare’s to outrageous family Christmas shows. The bar and bookstore make for a fun outing as well!
Tickets: 15 pounds and up
National Theatre, South Bank, London, SE1 9PX.
Box Office 020 7452 3000
The Old Vic is just down the cut from the National. There you will find star driven staples to the theater canon. This Season boasted the Crucible, helmed by Richard Armitage, and Electra, lead by Kristen Scott Thomas. The direction is supreme and the runs long- so plenty of time to catch their plays. Also, on the rise is their Old Vic New Voices, a showcase for up and comings from all over London not just the top tier agencies, with a strong emphasis on community members and community voices.
Tickets: 10 pounds and up
The Old Vic, The Cut, London, SE1 8NB
Box Office 0844 871 7628
The Young Vic is a rocking nightlife spot just around from the corner from the Old Vic. Complete with an exciting bar out front. Cluttered with colorful young professionals of varying styles, you feel a buzz as soon as you enter the doors. With some of the most varied audience demographics, even the most novice theater go-er will feel at home and have a grand night.
Tickets: 10 pounds and up
Box Office: 020 7922 2922
Address: Young Vic, 66 The Cut, Waterloo, London SE1 8LZ
Shakespeare’s Globe is the not to miss if you want a pure classical experience. Stand down in the yard and gaze up at the incredible recreation and soak in some of the best classical stage acting London has to offer. It is an experience, in the yard you are entirely exposed to the elements and very close to the actors. Though, there isn’t a bad seat in the house for those who don’t wish to stand during a lengthy Shakespeare epics. An authentic experience entirely its own!
Tickets: 15 pounds and up
Shakespeare’s Globe 21 New Globe Walk Bankside London SE1 9DT
Box Office +44 (0)20 7401 9919
Back over the Thames is the Donmar Warehouse, a transformative space in the heart of Covent Garden. There is no noticeable pattern of the work produced at the Donmar besides that it is undeniably remarkable. The eye is always feasting on the great set design at the Donmar, and the experience is intimate. A personal favorite of mine for a last minute standing ticket because of the convenient handrail to learn on and great visibility.
Tickets: 15 pounds and up
41 Earlham St, London WC2H 9LX, United Kingdom
+44 844 871 7624
The Royal Court in the heart of stunning Sloane Square is for the more adventurous theater go-er. The Royal Court is entirely dedicated to new work at the highest standard. You will see fresh and funky there, from the script to the actors, there isn’t a stuffy thing about the Royal Court. They also host an excellent bar downstairs, not as colorful as the Young Vic, but excellent people watching.
Tickets: 10 pounds and up
Sloane Square London SW1W 8AS
Box Office: +44 (0)20 7565 5000
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