Shakespeare's Globe is a reconstruction of the Globe Theatre, which was completed in 1997. I…read morevisited with my husband on a recent trip to London earlier this month and had a great time. There are a couple of ways to experience the Globe. You can attend a performance (they typically have 1-2 performances per day at a range of rates) or you can tour the theater. The performance times didn't work well with our schedule (such a short trip), but we were able to fit in a tour, which was great. Our tour guide was wonderful. We started the tour inside the attached visitor/admission center, where he provided some context. Then we walked over to the theater itself and sat on each of the three levels to get a sense of the different individuals who attended Shakespeare's plays and how they would have experienced the performances they attended. We learned that the theater was built in 1599, when there was only bridge connecting Bankside and London. People either took barges across the river or - if they didn't have the money for a boat - walked to and across the bridge. We learned how much a performance cost for people sitting in different sections of the theater. We learned that the Globe burned down during a performance of Henry VIII in 1613 (the theater was rebuilt the following year but closed by 1642 and torn down in 1645). The modern recreation you can visit now is close to the original site (you can find the original site just a few steps away) and based on historical drawings and designs. It's as close to Shakespeare's Globe as we can get, and it's an incredible thing to see and experience. If you can fit in a performance, I'm sure it's amazing. But the tour was pretty great, too. I learned a lot about Shakespeare, the Globe, and London. We had a pretty tight schedule due to it being a shorter trip, and a tour of the Globe was a great way to take in such a historic and important site.

Even if you're not planning on seeing a show here, do the tour!…read more William Shakespeare's company built The Globe Theater very close to this spot in 1599. This is a replica of Shakespeare's theater which was built in the late 1990s. Originally, the idea was to mostly perform Shakespeare plays during the summer months, demonstrating exactly how those plays might have been seen in Elizabethan/Jacobean London. So, all-male casts, no modern technology, etc. Nowadays they make a lot more concessions with the aim of putting on enjoyable shows, but this is still an outdoor venue with a courtyard "groundlings" area that has no seats. The outer ring is covered and has wooden bench seating, with cushions available to rent. If you're a tourist who has spent the day hoofing it around this great city, you should probably make sure you have a seat. Furthermore, you might consider that a back-row seat would allow you to lean back, which you can't do in the other rows. This is very much a true professional theater experience. It's not just a gimmick; the original artistic director was no less than Sir Mark Rylance so you know you are going to see a high-quality production. However, the expertise on hand regarding the history of William Shakespeare makes for a very informative tour. I've done it multiple times and always loved it. But the production I saw of A Midsummer Night's Dream was lots of fun, easy to recommend. They involve the audience a lot, even bringing people on stage during actual scenes. Anyone who considers themselves a theater nerd owes themselves a visit. I strongly recommend the tour, and if you can make it to an actual show, you won't regret it. There are concession stands with a decent selection of snacks and drinks, alcoholic and otherwise. And there's a very large gift shop which was closed at the end of the show I went to, sadly. I would have bought something. But that's normal. NOTE: a second stage has been added to this complex, the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. It's a traditional indoor theater. If you're booking tickets, you might want to make sure you know which stage it's on, as that greatly impacts the experience. ANOTHER NOTE: I spoke to some people who believed the final scene of the movie Hamnet was filmed here. Although that might sound right, it is incorrect. That sequence was all done at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire.

Incredible performance by the actors of his Majesty's theater, the longest running show for phantom…read moreof the opera in West End over 40 years. In this case, the show aged well, and the props and costumes have clearly had time and money invested as this was the best rendition of Phantom I've seen to date. There was fire, light effects, great structures and hidden trapdoors, fake balconies, even a mysterious Houdini chair (no spoilers) and the production of Phantom here is clearly worth the full house it had tonight. Standing ovation at the end and tons of fun souvenirs to takeaway memories of the show. I sat in A21, center of the front row of balcony, and the view was perfect, showing just the bottom of the stage up. If I leaned forward, I could see into the pit which the ground floor seats could not. All the music was played by the incredible orchestra in the pit, Four private boxes at the front sides were filled with two persons each, which could be a fun return trip. I hope to definitely be back for another viewing some day. Incredible!

We had a fantastic visit to His Majesty's Theatre to attend "Phantom of the Opera". His Majesty's…read moreTheatre is a historic West End theatre located at 57 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4QL, best known as the long-time home of the musical The Phantom of the Opera. The theatre's name changes with the gender of the reigning monarch, reverting to His Majesty's Theatre in May 2023 following the accession of King Charles III. The history of His Majesty's Theatre has a rich tale spanning over 300 years and four different buildings on the same Haymarket site in London's West End. It is one of the few theatres whose name changes with the gender of the reigning British monarch. First Theatre (1705-1789): Opened as the Queen's Theatre in April 1705 by architect and playwright John Vanbrugh during the reign of Queen Anne. Due to licensing laws, it quickly became an opera house, and George Frideric Handel premiered over 25 of his operas there. Upon the accession of George I in 1714, it was renamed the King's Theatre. This building was destroyed by a fire in 1789. Second Theatre (1791-1867): A new, larger theatre, also known as the King's Theatre, opened in 1791. It hosted London premieres of operas by Mozart and Beethoven, and in the mid-19th century became renowned for romantic ballet, with famous ballerinas performing the works of Jules Perrot. When Queen Victoria ascended the throne in 1837, it was renamed Her Majesty's Italian Opera House (later just Her Majesty's Theatre). This building also fell victim to fire in 1867. Third Theatre (1868-1896): A third structure was built within the shell of the old one in 1868. After remaining dark for several years due to a rent dispute, it was used for a period by a Christian revivalist movement before returning to theatrical use, hosting the first complete English performance of Wagner's Ring cycle and appearances by Sarah Bernhardt. It was eventually demolished in 1892 as it had become technically outmoded. Fourth (Current) Theatre (1897-present): The current French Renaissance-style building was commissioned by actor-manager Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree and opened on April 28, 1897, as Her Majesty's Theatre. Tree produced spectacular Shakespearean plays and literary adaptations and even established the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in an apartment he built for himself in the theatre's dome. The current theatre is very well organized. The audience was very respectful during the show and did not seem overly crowded. However, you should be aware the restroom facilities are very small (remember, it's an old building) so plan accordingly! We both look forward to to going back when we return to London!

THE premiere artistic theater company in London and one of the best in the world…read more Its rare to see plays produced at this quality and on this scale. If you're a theater lover, you will love whatever you see here.

We dined at Lasdun before attending a performance of "Nye". The food and service at the restaurant…read morewere excellent. Salad, main course and dessert were all wonderful. Add a bottle of Veuve Cliquot and that's a perfect prelude to an evening of theater. "Nye" and Michael Sheen were wonderful. A deeply moving account of the man behind the founding of the National Health Service. At the conclusion, when they projected the improved health statistics since the inception of NHS, there were many watery eyes, including mine. "WELL DONE" cast and crew!

We saw Les Misérables and it was phenomenal!! I cried and laughed and was so taken by the voices of…read morethe entire cast! My friend has seen this show on broadway (NEW YORK) and she said this cast and theater was SO MUCH better! Even after the show finished and the cast were taking their bows it brought tears to my eyes again because of how amazing they were. Standing ovation was the least the audience could do after this breath taking performance!!

It was almost surreal to be able to purchase last minute tickets to see Les Mis at Queen's Theatre…read more I was in town for a few days and couldn't let the opportunity slip away. First of all, the theatre is beautiful. We had seats with limited view. I wasn't able to see the front, left portion of the stage but it really didn't take away anything from the performance. The staff members were very helpful. They were plentiful and led everyone to their seats. The line and security went rather quickly. Everyone had an opportunity to use the toilet during the intermission and didn't miss a second. I loved how everything started on time...I say this because this never happens in the US haha. If you're ever in London, take a few hours and watch a show at this theatre. Extremely worth it and forever memorable.

What a fantastic venue! We went to see "A Christmas Carol" play at this theater and the production…read morewas just perfect. The stage was located in the middle with the audience sitting all around it. It felt like we were part of the play. It was nothing like the theaters in the US. We loved it. Can't wait to be back in London and see another play at the Old Vic!

Love The Old Vic! It oozes history and class. The interior decor is stunning and the exterior looks…read morepretty swell too especially when lit up at night. I was so excited to be there for one of the previews of 'Other Desert Cities' and curious as to how that would work with the theatre having just been reconfigured to 'in the round'. It actually worked very well, and while we in the upper level, I can imagine it would be particularly interesting to be in the seats that were vitrually part of the set. I think I spied Melvin Bragg Down there. Who-ever it was he seemed to enjoy the show as much as us. OK perhaps it wasn't what I would call must-see theatre but it had a little something for everyone, and despite its dark nature in places, we had plenty of knowing belly laughs too. Since press night its been garnering a solid four stars. Perhaps because the show was in preview we were able to bag reasonably priced tickets at the box office direct. The staff were very friendly and helpful when we popped in the day before to check on availability. If there was a down-side it was that the seats were uncomfortable and the leg room very cramped, and thats coming from someone who is just 5ft & 2 inches! My companion had another foot on me and found the cramped seating a distraction from the show. Perhaps the more expensive seats are more comfortable. Wish everywhere had seats as cosy and roomy as The National Theatre! Conveniently located just along the road from Waterloo station for tube, rail and taxis.

Highly recommended! It was my first time watching this show…read more I usually go to New York for Broadway and didn't know Broadway shows are big in London too. I've always wanted to see this show and am glad I chose to see it here. It wasn't packed, so I was able to get a good seat. I really enjoyed the show.

My second show in the original land of Broadway…read more.. This is my second favorite show of all time (Jersey Boys being my #1.) The sequence, the singing, the acting, the sets - everything was divine, just like the movie. Highly recommended!

I just wanted to start off by saying the person that rated Alice Underground 1 star is a complete…read moreimbecile. The characters are upstairs after you finish watching the show. Fucking idiot. Now for the review of the actual show! This show was amazing. The amount of detail put into each of the sets and the costumes was absolutely jaw dropping and completely exceeded my expectations. The acting was phenomenal and truly made you feel that you really were in another world. I was told by a worker at the bar that you could go to this show 4 times and have a different experience each time. I would definitely not mind doing this show multiple times to be able to see ALL of the sets, costumes, scenarios and different pieces of the story. Immersive theater at its finest! I flew from New York to see this show and it was worth it. My 2nd event at the vaults and I can promise I'll be back for more. DO NOT MISS THIS.

"If you had taken me on this when I was younger, I would've cried the whole way through" - this is…read morehow I've opened my story of the Alice's Adventures Underground experience to everyone I've spoken to. We had an amazing time, but my god this place sticks to the 'original' Alice = totally mind altering! Located in Waterloo Vaults, you first enter into a bar and merchandise area, at which point you're asked to check your coat and bag in. There is a bar available but, having been to Cubana for a happy hour cocktail beforehand, we were just ready to get started. This is also the opportunity to pre-order your drinks for the Mad Hatter's Tea Party if you so wish - white or red wine, or a gin and cucumber cocktail at £5 a pop. The experience itself is hard to describe, partly because there's just so much going on your brain can hardly comprehend and partly because I don't want to ruin anything for those who want to attend in the near future. Four different stories unfold alongside one another, culminating in a huge court scene with the ferocious queen and interspersed with all the well known characters. The Mad Hatter's Tea Party was a personal favourite (and not just for the opportunity to sit down!) - the characters are all very well played, the right balance between scary and comfortingly familiar. Plus the look on people's faces when the scene begins again is something of a picture...worth swotting up if you want to know what's to come! The final bar is where you can revel in the success of escaping this twisting world, with a brilliant little band, bar and hot food available. There's a maze and some flamingo croquet for activities, and plenty of alcohol available. You can re-enter this area throughout its run this summer with your SUIT card, issued earlier in the evening, and worth visiting if you know someone who possess something so powerful. Why four stars? Giving in our bags as recommended rendered us purse-less, so that last area was a bit of a let down - once you exit, there's no re-entry on the day, so it was a quick nose around and then out again. Coming out at £50 a ticket, you'd also think that perhaps that the tea party drink could be on the house. Whether you go for 'eat me' or 'drink me', I recommend the Alice's Adventures Underground Experience. Just, please, don't eat the jam tarts!

Went to see The Devil Wears Prada. It was a great show. Everyone was fantastic and so high energy…read more The theater is conveniently located next to a Tube stop. It's a large theater and the best part is they have decorated the entire theater to the Prada theme. They have costumes from the show displayed in the lobby and on the multiple floors. There's even a gift shop on the top floor. We were in the upper balcony but it was very close to the bathrooms upstairs which was nice. It's such a massive theater. One of the larger ones on this trip. Our sightline was great and unobstructed and I could see the entire stage.

Dominion Theatre is a great venue for a show! Located right next to the tube station makes is easy…read moreaccess when you're coming from across town. Beautiful venue and well kept. Bar staff were pleasant and worked through the long queues promptly. Highly recommend!

The review here below relates to a ticket seller Thearte Tickets Direct who the Peacock Thearte…read moreallow to sell show tickets on their behalf for their shows. We contacted the Peacock Theatre to explain our utter disapointment with 'agents' of their company who they allow to sell tickets on their behalf. The response from the Peacock Thearte was 'we are sorry but there is nothing we can do'. ADVCE: Other than stop companies like Theatre Tickets Direct selling tickets to your shows might be something you could consider? Whilst we are going to watch the show, we will never attend the Peacock Thearte again. It is rather ironic that the Theartes here in London have been pleading for Government funding to help them survive the pandemic, and then allow companies like Theatre Tickets Direct sell their shows and treat consumers unfairly in their name. HERE BELOW IS OUR THEARTE TICKETS DIRECT REVIEW ON GOOGLE AND TRUSTPILOT BEWARE OF THIS COMPANY AND BEFORE YOU EVEN CONSIDER USING THEM CHECK THEIR ONE STAR REVIEWS. So, my Wife tried to book two tickets for Saturday Night Fever at the Peacock Thearte for the performance on the evening of the 20 February 2022. Upon visiting their site she notice a block of three front row seats available so she proceeded to book two of the three seats available. She booked one of the two seats but when she tried to book the seat next to the one she had booked she found that system was not letting her do so. Frustrated with this she when out of the booking system and refreshed her browser. Upon going back into the booking system she clicked on the first seat she had booked it and was not showing as available any longer. She then thought well that seat has now gone and successfully booked the other two remaining seats. She went to the secure checkout and paid for the tickets. Within minutes of making the booking she received notification from her bank that Thearte Tickets Direct had debited the cost of all three tickets from her account. She immediately emailed Thearte Tickets Direct advising them of the error within tens minutes of receiving the notification of debit from her bank. She received a very abrupt email the next day from a Nandeep Vyas advising that it was now 'impossible' to issue a refund for the third ticket even though it was probably a glitch in their booking system. We have perused the one star reviews here and would tend to agree with the consensus of opinion expressed therein that the customer service is appalling and that they are potentially scamming consumers. We are consumer lawyers and we will not let this matter rest. We fully intend to drag the matter through the Small Claims Court for a princely sum of £35 to issue on these people, and have them explain their T&Cs to the court is well worth it, and we will publish the outcome here, win or lose. We have also written to the Chief Executive of the Peacock Theatre outlining our dissapointment in the way in which this company represent the theatres who allow them to sell tickets for their shows on their behalf.

A very centrally located and super comfortable theatre. It feels more like a plush cinema hall than…read morethe regular London theatres (live productions) Comfortable seats, with good cushioning and gasp! Plenty of leg room! We were down in the stalls and there are no pillars or other such construction in the middle of the hall, so none of the seats were "restricted view" I'd bought discounted tickets on Time Out and that is always a risk, since you do not know until you've picked up your tickets in the day of the show, what seats are going to be allocated to you. But at the Peacock, that risk is minimised - due to the afore mentioned absence of "restricted view" seats. Temperatures were comfortable throughout. There were cafeterias on both floors (stalls and circle), but we had just had dinner before the show, so we didn't brave the crowds milling around to check it out. They do have a lift for the disabled to use, so access is not an issue, even though the elevator is very slow. I'm not 100% sure about this, but I think they have some kind of tie-up with Sadler Wells as they seem to have a lot of their shows coming up.

The acoustics are good and the seats are reliable comfortable…read more It's difficult to find the correct entrance for a particular second of seating and the signage is poor. I saw "Fiddler on the Roof." It was very good, also in several cases the male casting was weak. The females performers were all excellent!

BEWARE!!! If you choose to attend a production here, the staff are monsters. If you end up in a…read morehospital and can't attend the show, there is no refund or understanding on their part. Despite me showing proof of being in the hospital with receipts and time stamps, there is was no reprieve, no refunds not even an offer to attend on a different day. They were rude and curt. Really a shame to treat theatre patrons this way.