Aldwych Theatre
49 Aldwych, London, Greater London, WC2B 4DF
Since opening in 1905, the baroque-style Aldwych Theatre has hosted a wide range of productions, from Shakespearean plays to the first London staging of A Streetcar Named Desire, directed by none other than Laurence Olivier and starring Vivien Leigh, star of Gone With The Wind. These days, the 1,200-seat auditorium hosts grand musicals nearly every night of the week.
The basics
The Aldwych Theatre stages performances of popular musicals, such as Fame,Dirty Dancing, and Tina: The Tina Turner Musical. Book a ticket in advance to ensure a seat. Different ticket types suit different budgets: Tickets with unobstructed views are typically pricier than those with side-on or partially restricted views of the stage. Some ticket packages include a pre-theater dinner at a Covent Garden restaurant.
Things to know before you go
- The Aldwych Theatre’s long-running shows are a must for musical fans.
- The theater does not have a dress code.
- Performances with a sign language interpreter are occasionally staged.
- Wheelchair accessible seats are available in the Dress Circle and in select boxes, while step-free access to the theater is via a side entrance on Drury Lane.
How to get there
The Aldwych Theatre is situated in the heart of London’s West End. Take the Tube (Piccadilly line) to Covent Garden. The theater is less than 10 minutes’ walk from there. Holborn (Central and Piccadilly lines), Charing Cross (Northern and Bakerloo lines), and Temple (Circle and District lines) Underground stations are also within walking distance.
When to get there
Arrive at least 30 minutes before the performance start time to allow for security checks and the opportunity to grab a drink in one of the theater’s two bars. The auditorium itself opens 30 minutes before the show.
Where to sit
Seating is across three levels: the Stalls, Dress Circle, and Grand Circle. The Stalls are nearest the stage, with the Dress Circle situated above, and the Grand Circle at the highest level. Tickets at the front and center of the Stalls and Dress Circle offer the best views of the stage, while some seats further back may have a restricted view thanks to the overhang of the Dress Circle and Grand Circle.
Ways to explore
Just off the Strand on London’s famous Drury Lane, the ornate Aldwych Theatre is built in Edwardian baroque style, both inside and out. Just looking around is a worthwhile experience, but catching a show is the real delight. The theatre stages performances of popular musicals, such as Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,Dirty Dancing, and Tina: The Tina Turner Musical. Book your ticket in advance to ensure a seat; prices vary by date, show, and seat type.
Some ticket packages make a night of it and include a pre-theater dinner at a restaurant in Covent Garden.
Accessibility
The theater has an accessible entrance, seating spaces for wheelchairs, and accessible restrooms. Hearing devices are available. Service dogs are welcome and can either stay with their owner during a performance or be watched by a member of the theater staff.
Age limits
Kids under 5 years old are not permitted in the theater; parents should check before booking, as individual shows offer their own age guidance.
What to pack
Small bag, empty water bottle, light layers
What to wear
There’s no dress code, but smart casual is recommended.
Not allowed
Outside food and drink, photography and videography, large bags
Amenities
Concessions, bar, restrooms, cloakroom, merchandise kiosk
Address
The Aldwych Theatre is in central London, not far from the River Thames. There are many ways to get there, but public transit is your best bet.
Driving
While you could drive to the Aldwych Theatre, it’s located within the London Congestion Charge Zone, which is best avoided. If you must, park at the Q Park Chinatown Car Park, where theatergoers receive a 50 percent discount.
Public transportation
Take the tube to Covent Garden (Piccadilly line), Temple (Circle and District lines), Holborn (Central and Piccadilly lines), or Charing Cross (Northern and Bakerloo lines). It’s a short walk from there.
Best times to visit
Matinee performances (usually 2–2:30PM) are often cheaper than evening shows and can be less crowded.
Best days to visit
Weekday shows usually see fewer tourists, and offer higher odds of getting last-minute tickets.
Best months to visit
The winter months—not including the holidays—can have greater availability and fewer crowds.
Special events
The London Theatre Festival takes place in June, and Kids Week (when kids can get free tickets) runs in August.
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