Theater in London

If you study abroad in London, you’re in luck because it has one of the best theater scenes ever. While you’re here, even if you aren’t a theater buff, take the time to explore some of London’s best theaters and theater companies. To save you time, I’ll lay out where to go for great theater, and what to expect.

The West End: This is the “Broadway” of London. It has the mainstream musicals, such as “Mamma Mia”, “Shrek”, “Les Miserables”, etc. But it also houses very successful new musicals, revivals, and plays. These are big theaters that have high budgets for their shows – you will get a spectacle!

The West End

The Young Vic: This theater houses new works and has a very cool crowd. I just saw a production of “Three Sisters” here that completely made me rethink how I saw Chekov! The Young Vic has a very young vibe, and with tickets so cheap, it won’t make a dent in your savings to go.

The Young Vic

The Old Vic: The elder to the Young Vic, the Old Vic also produces high quality and low cost theater. The Old Vic prides itself on producing and showcasing some of the best talent in the world. Also, Kevin Spacey is the artistic director – I’m still hoping to see him there one day!

The Old Vic

Shakespeare’s Globe: The Globe is a “Shakespeare only” performance space. They crank out multiple high quality Shakespearian productions a year. The Globe is probably one of the most famous theaters in London, so I suggest you go!! It is only five pounds to stand in “the yard” (which is the floor space) and a bit more money to sit in the actual seats. But, I think everyone should experience standing in the yard. You can be first row for five pounds! Go when it's warm and not rainy though - the theater doesn't have a roof!

The Globe

Royal Court Theater: This theater prides itself on producing new works. There is always an interesting new show that’s never been seen before here, so I suggest you go before it becomes successful!

The Royal Court Theater

I hope you take the opportunity in London to see the AMAZING theater it has to offer. NYU often offers discount tickets to shows, and if you take any theater classes you are able to see shows almost every week!  Seeing shows has been one of my favorite experiences while in London.