London Theatres
Information about the Theatres in London
First
of all, try to see the famous Old Vic Company at the Old Vic on the
South Bank of the River Thames. It has a great tradition of fine acting
and offers some of the best theatrical entertainment in the world today.
The South Bank is also is the location for the National Theatre. In the
foyer of this theatre there are always free concerts and exhibitions.
You'll want to check what's playing in the famous West End theatres.
London offers a great variety of plays and musical comedies throughout
the year. Besides new plays, there are always revivals of Shakespeare
and the classics. For Shakespeare plays, go too to the Globe Theatre a
wooden, Elizabethan, reconstructed replica of Shakespeare's original
Globe Theatre in London during the 16th century. It was opened in 1997
in Bankside just the other side of the River Thames. The theatre is an
open air one and only the stage and special (more expensive) seating
area is covered. For the public you must stand to watch the plays as
they did in the 16th century. Performances are between May and early
October and tickets are not expensive at £5.
Try it for a unique experience. For any theatre show it is best
to decide what you want to see when you first arrive and get seats in
advance. Popular plays and first night performances sell out very
quickly, especially during the summer. Tickets can be purchased at the
booking office; at Ticket Agencies, which you will see all around
central London; from the official ticket booths in Leicester Square or
at Canary Wharf ; On-line; or over the phone. If purchasing via a
Ticket Agent you will be charged a booking fee of around 25% . Look for
Agents who are members of the Society of Ticket Agents & Retailers
(STAR) to ensure the best service. Purchasing your ticket at the booking
office of the theatre itself will not entail extra booking fee costs
(unless you do so over the phone). Most theatre's booking offices are
open from 10a.m. and continue to sell tickets till 30 minutes before the
evening performance.