Gielgud Theatre London
Gielgud Theatre Tickets
What’s On at Gielgud Theatre
Audiences at the Gielgud Theatre can expect a variety of world-class entertainment this year, as the venue lines up its now classic schedule of short-run plays and musicals. 2024 has begun on a high with Olivier Award-winner Sheridan Smith starring in Ivo van Hove’s world premiere Opening Night musical; Smith is one of the best musical theatre actresses working today and her presence in the West End is always a treat. Future events at the Gielgud are not yet on sale, but you can expect some prestige dramas and award-worthy performances to grace the stage in the coming months.
About the Gielgud Theatre
The Gielgud Theatre first opened in in 1906 and was designed by W. G. R. Sprague in the Louis XVI style of architecture. It was originally named the Hicks Theatre in honour of the actor, manager and playwright Seymour Hicks, but was renamed the Globe Theatre in 1909 and finally as the Gielgud Theatre in 1994, when construction of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre began.
During its time as the Globe Theatre, the venue had a resident cat named Beerbohm, who was known for attacking props and occasionally wondering onto the stage during performances. Beerbohm was so popular that when he died in 1995, he became the only cat to receive a front-page obituary in The Stage.
The Gielgud Theatre has a capacity of 994 and is typically used for short runs of plays and musicals. Many famous directors and actors have worked at the theatre, including its namesake John Gielgud, who directed and starred in Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest in 1939. Other notable productions include Macbeth starring Patrick Stewart and Equus starring Daniel Radcliffe, both in 2007 and The Ferryman by acclaimed playwright Jez Butterworth in 2017.
Map and Address
35 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 6AR
Located on the famous Shaftesbury Avenue, the Gielgud Theatre is close enough to central locations, allowing you to venture into Soho and Chinatown’s bustling streets that are filled with restaurants, bars and cafes. Piccadilly Circus and two of London’s finest parks, Green Park and St James Park are close by, and Oxford Street and Piccadilly Circus give access to world-class shopping. There are great transport links to the Gielgud Theatre, though always check www.tfl.gov.uk before travelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Gielgud Theatre box office open and how do I collect tickets?
The box office is open from 2 hours and 30 minutes before the start of a show until 15 minutes after curtain up. It remains open between performances on matinee days. Tickets can be collected at the box office an hour before the performance begins. During this time, bookings for future dates are usually not carried out, to ensure audiences for the day's performances can get to their seats on time.
What time does the Gielgud Theatre open for a show?
The theatre opens 45 minutes before the start of the performance. Visitors are directed to a dedicated entrance, suitable for your seat location. The bars and cloakroom should open straight away but they can get crowded so it is best to arrive early to make sure you have plenty of time to purchase refreshments and get comfortable in your seat.
What food and drink are available at the Gielgud Theatre?
The venue has three bars, situated in the foyer, Stalls and Dress Circle. The bars serve a range of beers, wines, spirits, champagne and soft drinks as well as snacks, confectionery and ice creams. No hot food is permitted inside the theatre. You are able to pre-order interval drinks at the nearest bar to your seat, which is highly recommended if you want to beat the queue during the interval.
Does the Gielgud Theatre have a cloakroom?
There is a cloakroom at the theatre. Small bags and coats can be stored for the duration of the performance, charged at £1 per item. Space is limited and larger bags and suitcases cannot be accepted, so it is recommended that you take minimal personal belongings to the theatre.
Where should I eat near the Gielgud Theatre?
The theatre is located on Shaftesbury Avenue, which benefits from a wide range of cafes and restaurants. A pre-theatre dinner at Sophie's Steakhouse is a popular choice with theatregoers, due to its proximity to the venue. Alternatively, sample some of Milan's tastiest food at the popular Italian eatery, Princi, which is a five-minute walk from the theatre.
What is the best hotel to stay at near the Gielgud Theatre?
The Premier Inn Leicester Square is just a five-minute walk away from the theatre and offers a range of affordable rooms in the heart of London's West End. If you are looking for a touch of luxury during your stay, spend the night at the five-star W London Hotel, which is less than a three-minute walk from the theatre and offers lavish rooms decorated in a contemporary "Cool Britannia" style.
How do I contact the box office?
There is no dedicated box office phone number. Patrons can contact the box office by using the contact form on https://www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk/contact-us
