DISCLAIMER: I am in no way encouraging non-essential travel during a pandemic. Please stay home and heed the guidelines offered by your state and federal governments.
If you’re looking to fill your upcoming trip with shows away from the Broadway-turned-West End productions, this is the post for you! Below is a list of my favorite theatres in London; these are theatres that I’ve personally visited on my many voyages to London. I love these companies for their commitment to quality theatre and their individuality in their theatrical designs, audience experience, and community engagement. Each of these companies has something unique to offer the theatre community, and I highly recommend buying a ticket to any one of their shows.
1. The Royal Court Theatre
If you are looking for quality, top-notch, contemporary productions, look no further than The Royal Court Theatre. This theatre, located on Sloane Square in Soho, consistently produces beautiful, provocative, and thought-shifting work. Their mission is to support undiscovered, emerging, and established artists that make art for our present world. They have a commitment to working with underrepresented writers, and they regularly work with one of my favorite playwrights, Caryl Churchill. I love seeing shows on their proscenium stage because the auditorium chairs are made from old car seats, and while the theatre boasts three levels, the space still manages to feel intimate.
2. The Bridge Theatre
I simply love the beauty of this theatre. Located right on the South Bank, just to the west of the Tower Bridge, this theatre is truly one of the most beautiful I’ve ever stepped foot in. I was privileged enough to see the 2019 production of The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe at The Bridge, and even though I had a restricted view in the Circle, I was not disappointed. The space lent itself to captivating audience participation, and my experience overall was magical. Being able to walk outside after the show and see the Tower Bridge all lit up was just the cherry on top.
3. The Gate
This was one of the first theatres I went to on my first expedition to London. The Gate theatre in Notting Hill is located above a pub, recalling the theatre traditions of the Renaissance. However much their location may echo history, The Gate is another theatre company that commits themselves to producing new and provocative works. The space is extremely intimate, not even seating 100 people. Any show you see here is bound to be one you’ll remember. As a plus, the company is committed to implementing more sustainable practices in order to limit their footprint. Definitely see a show here if you love small but impactful productions!
4. Trafalgar Studios
If you’re looking for the production value of a touristed West End Show without the typical tourist crowd, you should check out Trafalgar Studios. Located just off of Trafalgar Square, this theatre is right in with the action of central London, but their shows don’t always appeal to the typical London tourist. I was able to see their production of Equus last year, and I still rave about it to this day. The theatre seats a large audience, and is set up to provide an engaging sensory experience. If you’re looking for a theatre in Central London, definitely check out Trafalgar Studios.
5. Southwark Playhouse
The best word I can use to describe this theatre is…grungy. And I mean that in the best way possible. Southwark playhouse is one of London’s best studio theatres, and they often work with emerging theatre artists to create high quality and unique shows. Your audience experience at this theatre will no doubt stick with you, as this theatre boasts a small flexible studio space, so the audience layout is worked into the design of the show. Southwark Playhouse also offers youth & community programs that are free to participants, which is even more reason to support this company on your trip to London!
6. Almeida Theatre
This theatre is a hidden gem in Islington. Tucked away off the main street, this theatre produces captivating productions of both new and historic plays. Their goal is to bring the newest generation of British artists to the stage, whether that’s through brand new works, or re-imagined classic pieces. Their space is a charming library-and-lecture-hall-turned theatre which lends itself to an intimate audience experience. The Almeida Theatre also has a commitment to implementing more green practices for the productions and audience services! If you’re looking for a charming night in Northwest London, add this place to your list.
7. Donmar Warehouse
I have had the opportunity to attend a show at the Donmar multiple times on my trips to London. The Donmar Warehouse is an unparalleled theatrical space in Covent Garden. In its less than 30 years of operation, the Donmar Warehouse has won over 100 awards for their high-quality works. They bring to the stage excellent new artists and contemporary pieces, and they also offer training courses for new artists. If you’re looking for great theatre in a funky warehouse, this is the place!
8. The Young Vic
This is another theatre I keep going back to every time I visit London. I love the Young Vic for its fresh take on the theatrical cannon. They consistently put out new and unique pieces that engage with audience members, even after the show is over. Their flexible space allows them to transform each new production into a completely different world from the previous show. I love the designs of all their shows and there is rarely a bad seat in the house. They also have great discounted rates!
9. Arcola Bar & Theatre
Another grungy theatre makes list! I love this theatre because it appeals to younger audiences and produces shows that have urgency in the present moment. The studio-style company makes its home in a found space, and creates theatre that speaks to our contemporary world. They focus their work on original productions, world theatre pieces, and bold new takes on classical theatre. They are also one of the most affordable theatres in London. As if it wasn’t already cool enough, the building also doubles as a trendy bar. Make sure you go early and grab a drink before the show!
10. The Globe
Look, I know you didn’t come here for this suggestion, but just do it. Any proper theatre nerd can’t go to London without seeing a show at Shakespeare’s Globe. I go every. single. time. The quality of the shows never disappoints, and the fresh takes on Shakespeare’s plays are always engaging and thought-provoking. I wouldn’t be able to make a post about quality London theatre without including the Globe. If you claim to love theatre and visit London, this is a non-negotiable requirement. And yes, you have to buy the standing tickets.
