Arts Theatre

Now Playing: The Choir of Man

The Choir of Man returns to the West End for a drink at the best pub in the world!
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Buy Tickets
From £43
Arts Theatre
6+

Upcoming Performances

  • Fri 19 Dec
    15:30, 19:30
  • Sat 20 Dec
    15:30, 19:30
  • Tue 23 Dec
    19:30
  • Wed 24 Dec
    14:30

About Arts Theatre

Arts Theatre is a small yet influential West End venue just off Leicester Square. Opened in 1927 as a private members’ club, it became a hub for experimental and uncensored work, earning the nickname “The National Pocket Theatre”. With only 353 seats across two levels, it offers an intimate setting for cult hits, offbeat comedies and new writing.
🏆 Notable Record

Its early production of *Richard of Bordeaux* (1932) became a breakthrough success, launching the theatre towards mainstream recognition.

Venue Tips

✨ Best For

Cult shows, new writing, comedy, fringe-style theatre and intimate performances near Leicester Square. Perfect for theatre fans looking for something bold, quirky and close-up.

💺 Best Seats

Stalls centre rows (B–H) offer the best views and immersion. Circle front-centre provides strong value, and Circle Slips give affordable side-on views for budget-conscious guests.

⚠️ Seats to Avoid

Avoid far-side Circle Slips if you prefer full-front staging, and back-row Stalls for taller viewers where rake is shallow. Overall, sightlines are strong due to compact design.

Things to Know Before You Go

Where is the Arts Theatre located?

On 6–7 Great Newport Street, just off Charing Cross Road, a short walk from Leicester Square and Covent Garden.

Which Tube stations are closest?

Leicester Square (2 mins), Covent Garden (5 mins) and Tottenham Court Road (8 mins).

Which train station is nearest?

Charing Cross, around 7 minutes away on foot.

How early should I arrive?

Arrive 20–25 minutes early to pass bag checks and enjoy the foyer or bar.

Is there a dress code?

No dress code. Smart casual or everyday clothes are fine, though guests sometimes dress up for evening shows.

Is the theatre accessible?

Step-free access to foyer and Stalls via ramp. Wheelchair spaces available in the Stalls, accessible toilets provided.

Are food and drinks available?

Yes. Bars serve drinks and snacks before the performance and during the interval.

Are bags checked at the entrance?

Light bag checks are in operation. Large luggage is not allowed.

🤓 Fun Facts

Opened in 1927 as a private club producing experimental, unlicensed plays in defiance of censorship.

Earned the nickname “The National Pocket Theatre” in the 1940s for staging over 100 productions under Alec Clunes.

A young Sir Peter Hall launched his career at the Arts Theatre.

Survived a major fire in the 1930s and was rebuilt while preserving its red-brick character.

Winner of Best Theatrical Venue at the Broadway World Awards.

Venue Location

Nearest Tube Stations

  • Leicester Square Northern, Piccadilly Zone 1 0.10 km
  • Covent Garden Piccadilly Zone 1 0.24 km
  • Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly, Bakerloo Zone 1 0.49 km