Oh no I didn't! Oh yes I did! Yup it was that time of year again, panto time!! Yaaaay! To be honest I haven't been to a panto in a long time well the last one I actually starred in as a good fairy back in 2006 in Blantyre. It was a last minute thing when my friend text to say they had some spare tickets to see Snow White. Now this wasn't just going with friends, oh no, this was going with half the brownies and guides from High Blantyre. Yelp! So when heading down to Blantyre train station it had been taken over by lots of little girls in yellow hats. What a sight?! So we made it to Glasgow, alighting at Anderston station, which therefore makes it only a 10min walk up to The Kings. So with a bunch of excited girls, I think I may have reached their level by now. Our seats were in the Gods, the Gallery if you want to be technical. Eep! Not my favourite part of the theatre but it's the cheap seats of the theatre. So the entrance is at the side of the building. After several flights of what felt like never ending stairs we made it to the top. We then headed down the aisle steps to our seats at a 45 degree angle to keep yourself upright, as it's soooooo steep. The Kings is a beautiful theatre that's many many years old. I always enjoy going but I normally pay a little bit more to get a better seat, normally Upper or Grand Circle, sometimes Stalls depending on the prices. One day I'll be I'll in the box seats. The stage is large and the sets were amazing. The costumes were stunning, so much detail from the principles characters right down to the chorus and dancers. The actors did a fine job and I did have a wee sigh of how much I do miss performing in the ol' pantoland. I think sitting in with the kids made it even more fun. I didn't realise though that Darius was in it though. Meh! Not a fan and could they mention Pop Idol, Colourblind, or Pop Star to Opera Star anymore times?! Shoooosh! Gavin Mitchell did a great job, he tastefully mentioned Gerald Kelly in the show and they dedicated the show at then end and had a minute clapping. The toilets were a bit of a nightmare though, as it's an old building it doesn't have as many toilets. The gents toilets were out of order at first so they had made the ladies a temporary gents. Then out of the two ladies toilets one was broken. So little girls being little girls, (whiny voice) "I need the toilet.", one goes they all go. So the queue went up the stairwell backing up to the entrance to the Gods. So a poor member of staff had to keep filling up the cistern with a bucket of water to get the other toilet working. At least the staff tried. Over all it was a great day out and The Kings always guarentees to have great shows on. I'm just waiting for Wicked to come to Glasgow. Hurry up London, fly up that Wicked Witch of West to us. read more

Panto is impressive here It's an old and traditional theatre Seats could be a little more comfortable and could do with a little more space read more

King's Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Glasgow, GLG

What I noticed about the theatre was the incredible heat of the place..Unbearable..Perhaps I'm just a cynical old b..... but why were the actors on stage mopping their brows at one point ?? I found the heat excessive and uncomfortable..People around me were either sweating or waving their programme ..Is it a cynical ploy to get us to drink more from the bars ??? At £7.60 for a gin and tonic you would have to be Posh Spice to go there regularly..Try to make the customers happy..You are raking in thousands of pounds every night ..!!!!!!!!!! read more

Ventured to the King's theatre with my mum and sister this week to see Dirty Dancing. When I purchased the tickets, I thought I had the right date but soon realised I'd made a mistake. Called ATG tickets and the girl on the other end of the phone was super helpful. She swapped the dates at no extra cost for me, when there should have been a charge. Delighted! Because I bought the tickets fairly close to the show, I was told to pick them up at the box office. I thought I was being smart going on my lunchbreak, the day of the performance, to pick them up. Huge mistake! Spent my whole lunchtime in the queue, there was only two people serving (felt sorry for these ladies) and the process of picking/buying tickets seemed to take a very long time. I had to leave to go back to work without the tickets. When we got there on the night, we were able to pick up the tickets instantly. Probably my fault for trying to be smart and go at lunchtime but lesson learned. They really need to sort out the queue problem though, perhaps a few more staff/computers, something to make people's wait a little less agonising. We had great seats in the stalls, the legroom is a bit on the tight side but wasn't a problem for us. It can get quite warm in there too, but nothing unbearable. I love the decor and the fact that all the original features are still there in the theatre. Look up, you won't regret it. Beautiful! The show itself was not bad, I love the film but the show was a tad too cheese-tastic for me. That's just my opnion though! Great dancing and performing throughout. The second half was spoiled by drunk, screeching women in front of us. Talking, cackling and just generally being rude whilst the cast members were on stage. Urgh! Think there should be more control of this, nobody approached these women and loads of folk around us were getting pretty annoyed. I was going to give this place 3 stars, but bumped it up for the building and interior, as well as the initial service I had with the tickets. read more

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One of my favourite places to go for theatre and comedy. It's a good 100 years old with proper old school red curtains and red velvet seats. The staff are polite and friendly which always helps and there's always something going on in here all year round. The snacks are pretty pricy but that's expected from most theatres. I went recently to see a Chinese Circus which was awesome-o. Didn't realise how far back the stage stretched really till I saw those guys performing. A good venue for big comedy gigs as well and host to some of the big names during the upcoming Magners Comedy Festival. read more

King's Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Glasgow, GLG

I'm a huge fan of theatre, when I have the time and money to go. I normally get my fill when I'm in NYC visiting friends and family. Plus, there is a little bit of Rachel Berry (Glee reference) inside of me. Oh. the. shame. The King's Theatre has been around for ages... and it sure looks it! Despite the desperate need for restoration, it's still charming and full of character. It's easily accessible in the City Centre, and showcasing some stellar shows. Just recently, I came here with friends and Lumberjack to see Spamalot (hilarious!). The box office is at the main entrance of the venue, even though there seems to be doors leading in every which way. We sat in the stalls towards the right of the stage. It was a bit of an obstructed view, so I would recommend sitting in the upper middle areas (depending on how much you're willing to fork over). The seats were fine, nothing too uncomfortable or cosy. Overall, it was a good theatre-going experience. Spamalot definitely made the night! Tip: if you go to the box office ahead of time, the box office assistant may be able to help you with some deals (i.e. £35 tickets for £10, depending on demand for a show). Just sayin'... ;-) read more

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I want to love this place, I really do. And I love the ascetic of it, the old architecture, how ornate the theatre is, I do. But old theatres do have the draw backs. We were in the upper circle thanks to late bookings which meant quite a lot of stairs which I hadn't been prepared for (damn knees). The upper circles are quite difficult to navigate if the place is already pretty full, as everyone is really packed in like sardines. We, collectively, are bigger than in 1904 when the theatre was built! My main issue was leg room, if you have three taller than average (not giants) sitting next to each other, legs are going to become an issue. It is a shame as it's such a beautiful theatre. But I may be inclined to prefer the newer builds due to accessibility. read more

King's Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Glasgow, GLG

AVENUE Q!! Recently bagged some cheapo tickets in the upper stalls for the last night of the Avenue Q tour (£15 each!!!) *thumbs up* Couldn't WAIT to enjoy the show for the second time! Got to the Kings in plenty of time and we made our way up the stairs...I had forgotten about the vertical trek!! lol...en route to our seats, I suggested we arrange some "light interval refreshments" in the bar...I should've expected the prices, really, but I think my brain had managed to block their scale out from last time-EXTORTIONATE!! I was really taken aback...but y'know, got over it by justifying it my head..!! I would deffo recommend preordering interval drinks, I know I wouldn't have thought to, but my Mama raised me with this knowledge from early!! ;-) (the interval drinks had obviously very efficiently been put out aaaaages before the interval, as they were a bit warm, but I appreciated they were there to be grabbed, conveniently...) The tickets I bought made a note of advising the headroom would be restricted-no biggie, we would fit...I hadn't considered the blimming LEGroom though..!! Ugh!! I have SHORT legs and I was CRAZY uncomfy for the first half...aaaaaand, the row behind us was empty, so when we made sure their occupants weren't gonna turn up, we snagged the empty seats with space either side!! Now, I KNOW that's a bit infra dig, BUT they were empty and I could finally stretch my little leggies out a bit...WIN!!! :-). I enjoyed the second half EVEN more than the first as I had a bit more room...Avenue Q is a great show, would REALLY recommend everyone sees it when it comes back...which it will! I do LOVE the Kings Theatre; I've got LOADS of great memories of pantos when I was wee with sweeties being chucked out into the crowd of screaming kids and when I saw Cats in my "musical" teens...but even with all my misty eyed nostalgia, I just can't do five stars due to my discomfort (I know, my fault for buying cheap seats-but I've now learned!! ;-) ) and to the drinks/Ice cream prices!! read more

King's Theatre - Avenue Q!! Great show!! - Performing Arts Near Me - Glasgow, GLG

I love the King's Theatre - it's big, it's old, and best of all, it plays host to several different musicals, plays, ballets, etc a year. Every musical, from Chicago to the Rocky Horror Show, has played here, and even then, the usual Christmas panto is great banter, along with family favourites like Scooby Doo and, of course, the Scottish greats, the one and only....The Singing Kettle! Never a dull moment, this place is simply what a theatre should be: great. read more

King's Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Glasgow, GLG

The King's, Glasgow is one of Scotland's most historic and significant theatres. Not to mention a very pretty one! It opened in 1904 as one of the most brilliant designs of the prolific theatre architect Frank Matcham and has played host to top stars and shows ever since. It is home to possibly the very best Christmas pantomime to be seen in the United Kingdom which over the years has featured the Scottish greats including Stanley Baxter, Jimmy Logan, Rikki Fulton, Jack Milroy, Elaine C Smith and Gerard Kelly. The staff are helpful, friendly and make the experience a pleasure. The seating is comfortable, with good leg room. An important factor for sitting down to watch a show for a couple of hours. As you'd expect from a theatre the acoustics are excellent. The interiors are classy and regal. It is the King's afterall! Situated right in the city centre means you're not far from plenty of bars and clubs should you be in the mood to keep your evening going. Well worth a visit. read more

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I was staying at a nearby hotel down the street from King's Theatre and I decided to see if I could go to a show on a whim. I went there to buy a ticket about an hour before a show and there were tickets available at a reasonable price. I went to see Thriller. The show was a lot of fun. There were plenty of seats, so even though there were a lot of people who attended the show, there was still a lot of space there. If you're looking for something to do for an evening and don't feel like spending too much money, I'd check this place out. read more

King's Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Glasgow, GLG

Going to the theatre always feels that little bit more special than a normal night out - it has an added bit of glamour and mystery to it! I've been here a few times for different things - a Christmas panto and most recently Derren Brown (ohhhahhh, sadly no hypnotising for me!) We had seats in the upper circle, which means you need to enter this section from the street - if you're inside and at one of the bars, you'll need to leave out to the street again and go through the other entrance. Maybe the seats aren't the most comfortable - there isn't a whole load of leg room, but as long as you don't have a tall person sitting in front of you then you should be able to relax and enjoy! At intermission you can either join the huge queue for the bar, toilet or ice cream seller - or just stay in your seat and stretch out! They also sell packages which you can get with your ticket for pre-paid drinks and private bar access which could be a good option. I think you can also pre-order drinks at the bar so you can just show up and collect it at intermission. All in all, a beautiful venue for a special night out. read more

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This is a tough yin to write.....I had the pleasure of attending a wonderful *gritted teeth* performance of 'Jesus Christ Superstar' here on Friday night.... Now don't get me wrong, the performance, cast and execution was as good as i could imagine it to be...its just that, well, musicals ain't really me thang (ain't that the truth!). Beyond the 'You're the boss JC' and 'I'm not a whore, i'm just friendly' numbers, i was able to swatch a nosey at the theatre itself... and well, its....eh......a....theatre?? In fact, its kinda hard for me to rate this viewing establishment in comparison to its peers, as i ain't really the theatre going type person....best thing for me to do is to show my opinion through a musical number, as sung by the theatre itself: *centre stage, blacked out, only a single spotlight on 'the theatre'* "I'm just like everybody else, THE END!" read more

Inside a lovely red sandstone exterior, is a beautiful theatre with a stunning ceiling and great stage...just the way an old theatre ought to be! There are 4 levels here, with the Grand and Upper circles ending in boxes that Waldorf and Statler from 'The Muppets' would be happy to occupy! The seats weren't entirely comfy, or spacious, and the lack of ailse down the middle means you have to disturb everyone if you need the loo (or ice-cream!). It IS a bit dog-eared and shabby around the edges, but this is really part of it's charm and I don't think I'd have it any other way. The acoustics were great, the show (Avenue Q) was fantastic and funny, the toilets were clean and tidy and we all had a really good night! read more

The Kings is a gorgeous old theatre that is well kept without being grotesquely modernised. Which is just as well because its 100 odd years strong glamour shines through! When we were younger, my friend and I used to refer to the Kings as "the posh theatre", which shows it still has a reputation in Glasgow for obtaining the best standard of touring shows. If London's west end theatre groups are on the move with a musical, it's a likely story that the Kings will host it for a length of time (usually between a week and a month). Many, many performing artists from all over the world have passed through its dressing room doors, but my fondest memories are of seeing the big shows in here. From Miss Saigon, Blood Brothers and Cats (several times), I've seen loads of classics when the've been hosted in Glasgow. The panto is a firm favourite for Glaswegians, and the Kings often puts on a grand performance. But rather than being bawdy and outrageous, the Kings has a reputation for picking up pantos that turn fairytales into full scale plays! The only example I can think of was when one year, my head was in a spin choosing between going to the Kings, which had live ponies in to pull Cinderella's carriage, or to go to the Pavilion, which had the Krankies. I opted for the horses in the end and the whole experience was magical. Some people hate being lumped with last minute seats in the Gods, but it is from that dizzying height where you can fully appreciate the gorgeous decor and old school style that keeps the Kings buzzing with the excitement of the theatre. read more

There is absolutely nothing like the old panto at the King's. It's been a Glasgow institution since it was built in 1904, and has continued to be perhaps the best theatre in Glasgow, nay, Scotland, ever since! I have so many fond memories in this place it'd be impossible to recount them all in this little review box, but suffice to say, they've put on more stonking great shows than I can count. From musicals (Return to the Forbidden Planet, Cats Blues Brothers, Fame), to cult classics (Rocky Horror Picture Show), to Peter Pan and the annual panto (Cinderella, Aladdin, Mother Goose), the King's delivers. The box office is located just inside the main entrance. The theatre seats around 1700 people in stalls, the grand circle, upper circle, and gallery levels. If you can swing it, I recommend front and centre at the grand circle. Like all theatres, there are some spots where it's hard to take in the whole stage, but as far as theatres go the King's has very few blind spots. Suffice to say, I cannot recommend this place enough! read more

It's a theatre. A nice, pretty and old theatre, but still just a theatre. I've been here many times over the years, most recently last weekend to see Rock of Ages. It was a surprisingly fun show - the cast were great and comfortable enough with each other to ad-lib at points without it feeling cringy. Our seats were in the Gods which you can only enter from the side street - if you don't like heights or using steep stairs, give these seats a miss! I'll be back - what's the panto this year?? read more

King's Theatre - Awww, cherubs - Performing Arts Near Me - Glasgow, GLG

I love this theatre. I've seen so many shows in here I feel like I should have my own seat in the theatre! This gorgeous building has housed many productions, and over the years has built up a wonderful reputation as one of Scotland's best theatres. In recent years, lots of big west end touring shows have decided to take up home here for a week or two, something that used to be reserved for only the Edinburgh playhouse in Scotland. The staff in this theatre are friendly and helpful, and every time I go here I feel totally at home! read more

Coming into the King's Theatre (albeit the side entrance!), a warm feeling of familiarity washes over me. This building is old, really old. It makes no attempt to modernise itself either, which is actually really nice. We went to see a panto here at Xmas and sat up in the Gods, right at the top of the theatre and had an amazing time. There weren't many people up there with us, so we had loads of room to stretch out and move around. However, this time, when we went to see Sean Lock as part of the Glasgow Comedy festival, it was almost unbearable up there! The show was a sell out and as we took our seats, it was impossible to move once you sat down! The heat got so much at one point I thought I was going to have to leave. Note to self: Book tickets earlier next time to avoid sardines in a tin like crampedness! The bar for the upper balcony is also a real low point. It is really old fashioned and ill-stocked, with warm beer which is a massive no-no. The stairs are also really old, made of stone and dangerous. A few people had near misses on the way down and one lady actually fell and looked as if she really hurt herself. Overall, I really like the atmosphere of the King's but I would get in there quick and book a ticket where you can move in the seat! read more

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The last time I was in Glasgow was just before the holidays and friends said "let's have a laugh and go to a panto!". So off we went to the King's Theatre. Having lived many years in Scotland, I find the whole pantomime experience outrageously funny. "Look out behind you!!". Anyway, a good time was had by all. The King's is a grand old theatre and very impressive. I can't wait to see it after it's scheduled renovation is completed. As it stands now, it does look a bit in need of it. Drawbacks: the seats are crammed in and uncomfortable and if you're up in the "nose-bleed" section, it's a LONG squint down to the stage, the toilets are definitely pre-WWII, and they found Osama in less time than it took to get a drink at the bar, but the holiday spirit prevailed and it was all good fun. Tickets weren't hard to get, given that it was last minute and they weren't too dear either. I can recommend the King's Theatre and I'll be glad to see what's playing next time I'm back in Scotland. read more

There is something magical about the King's Theatre. Perhaps it's the fact it is so old that it really epitomizes what a theatre should be. Plus it showcases a huge variety of quality shows every year, catering for all age groups. As it is part of the Ambassador group (which runs the shows in London's West End) it plays host to the best touring productions in the UK. Perhaps a little shabby (in a charming way), with its red velvet seats, it is now in the process of being refurbished and will hopefully be restored to its former glory in the near future. read more

The King's is a grand old theatre that is always worth a visit. Many years ago I went here to see Rocky Horror, which was quite magnificent in these lovely surroundings. With its good old fashioned decor that has been maintained beautifully, it's easy too see why this longstanding Glasgow institution is still going strong. read more

I was really looking forward to seeing a show in the King's. It is a grand theatre from the outside, and I couldn't imagine being disappointed once indoors. Enter: disappointment. Maybe I just built it up too much in my head, but I found the theatre hard to negotiate; little stairs, not enough signage, and a confusing layout. The seats were comfortable enough, but it seemed that the lower level seats had a limited view of the stage. It isn't anything that you notice right away, but unless you're sitting in the middle, you don't see the entire stage. I ended up moving seats to the Grand Circle at the interval, and while I could now see the stage without impediment, I found the light from the back lobby to be distracting, plus the usher who kept swiftly walking through one door and out the other, detracting from my enjoyment of the play. At interval, I was shocked, I say, SHOCKED at the price of the drinks. A bottle of beer and a gin and tonic were £8. I couldn't believe it. I looked at my server with confusion and she did not flinch. Yes, it was £8. Chrimeny. Tiny toilets, considering the size of the place contributed to my disappointment. While I did enjoy the old gold-trimmed decor and the sheer history of the place, I felt claustrophobic and relieved to exit stage left. Word has it that the Kings will be refurbed soon, and I wonder how much of it they're planning to change. A few nips and tucks here and there may just change that 3 star rating to a 4 star. read more

Gorgeous venue When watching a show I much prefer the classic 1900s decor of grand opulence to surround me than going to the cold concrete hydro Team are friendly (away from the box office) and the seating is comfortable enough - for the skinnier man of 1890 Love this place read more

The Kings is a great place to come for a night out! They always have on musicals and ballets and plays and of course their yearly panto with some of Scotland's best comedy actors!! It is REALLY old and it FEELS old inside. Its all red velvet and studs and things, the only downside is that i feel when it was built people were shorter - my very tall dad always needs an aisle seat to stretch his legs out! They could be doing with a proper wee shop as well, they have the odd sweets and there is a bar for your drinking needs ;) and of course interval ice creams!! but there isn't a proper place to just grab a bottle of juice and a packet of sweets if you're peckish. There are plenty of pubs and restaurants in the area and most of them offer pre-theatre deals. read more

I took my 8 year old granddaughter to see the autism friendly showing of Peter Pan on the 7th January. This was her first visit to the King's and her first time at a panto. She has Aspergers and has a problem with loud bangs and darkness so normally pantos are a no go for her. I have to say she thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and loved The Kings. So I have to say a heartfelt thankyou to everyone involved with this particular autism friendly show. I do hope there will be more relaxed performance shows in the future. I know it's not easy to pull this kind of show off but it would be wonderful to bring her back to see another show. Thanks again. Helen S. read more

Was at the kings for The Dirty Dancing show and it was fab. Great show, actors and venue. I don't think I had ever been here before and it was just fine. I was in much need of rehydration but the bar is shut until the interval which wasn't too good and you couldn't take an opened bottle of water/juice in with you. Fab show and evening. read more

The Kings is great. Certainly has a good repertoire of shows. The upper circle gives a good view if your budget doesn't allow for dress circle etc but not a lot of leg room! This is my main complaint, and to be fair, there's not a lot they can do without a refurb for this. Sound quality/volume was just ok on our visit so unsure of sound system. Having said that, it was a panto. Ad lib galore. Fun times had here though. read more

Great venue. Never had a problem and seen a lot events there. Most recently Uncles and Grado. Comfy seats and plenty legroom. I don't drink at the venue so couldn't comment on quality or price. read more

Was somewhat tired after volunteering at the Games but this show had me up and dancing, albeit with a few yawns. Great show, great cast who could not have been more enthusiastic. Treated us to an ice cream at the interval and at the price should have come with at least a "silver spoon" read more

in here to see Dave Gorman a couple of weeks ago and was my first time in the Kings. Get there early and drop into the Bar in the basement - I could have stayed there all night, never mind the show... :) for a cheaper venue, the staff work hard, the bar is top class the theatre itself just feels like it brings the audience completely together as one - looking forward to me next visit read more

What a fantastic I have seen so many fabulous shows here, and have never been disappointed. We always sit in the stalls so you really feel part of the show. The good thing about this theatre is that its part of the Ambassador Group which is the same group which run the shows in Londons West Endtherefore you get amazing shows which are directed by people such as Cameron McKintosh and Ian (cant remember his surname - from the Maria Shows etc), some of the shoes I have seen are Cats, Miss SAigon, Chicago,Grease,Beauty and the Beast, The Producers, and so many more. The theatre has such an old feel about it but is very much in character and the decor inside is amazingdo yourself a favour and book a fancy show here.. read more

This was my first visit for about 20 years when we went to see Joseph for my wifes birthday. As this was kind of late idea I was limited with ticket choice and ended up paying £11 per ticket to sit on the very back row at the back of the theatre so I wasn't sure what to expect. However despite another review on this site noting that the gods were to avoided we weren't disappointed. The view was excellent even if you can't see facial expressions as they warn you when you book. It was however hot but what can you expect when heat rises and your are at the top!! I woud certainly revisit and take the same seats without hesitation read more

I was at the Kings on 12th April to see Annie, The show was super , but the housekeeping of the ladies bathroom left a very bad impression . When I first arrived at the theatre with a friend we went to the rest room and it was very clear to see that they had not been cleaned after the afternoon matinee, paper towel bins were full toilet tissue on the cubical floor. During the interval I went to the rest room and what I saw on first entering was over flowing waste bins piles of used hand towels on the fall near the bin and also outside the door leading to the theatre it was plan to see that no house keeping had been done at all. When I spoke to the theatre manager about this his reply was I'm sorry but the staff must have clocked off . From the state of the room it appeared as if they had never clock on. The show would warrant 5 stars from me. ~The facilities I have to give one but really it would be half . Kathleen Robertson Partick read more

Great show - Dance till Dawn - spoiled by two adjacent seats in the Grand Circle being £10 IN DIFFERENCE

Went to see Beauty and the Beast and the kings a few years ago and thought it was fantastic! We were seated on the second last row of the gallery and had a perfect view. I would definetly go back if the seats were in the gallery or the circle. My boyfriend won tickets to go here to see Saturday night fever and we were seated in the first row of the gods. The view from here was awful, you were so high up you felt as though you were looking straight down on the stage and you actaully had to sit on the edge of your seat and lean on the wall in front of you to see, there were safety barriers running along the length of the front of the walls which I had to duck to see under and my boyfriend had to strain his neck to see over and I wasnt even impressed with the show. I wouldnt reccomend going here if the only tickets left are in the gods, but anyhere else I would say go for it! read more