Gielgud Theatre
Now Playing: Oliver!
Experience the Olivier Award-winning family musical today!
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Upcoming Performances
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Fri 12 Dec19:30
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Sat 13 Dec14:30, 19:30
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Sun 14 Dec14:30
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Tue 16 Dec14:30, 19:30
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Wed 17 Dec19:30
About Gielgud Theatre
Home to Royal Shakespeare Company residencies and numerous acclaimed productions, including the Olivier Award-winning 'The Ferryman'.
Venue Tips
✨ Best For
Fans of drama, star-led plays and elegant West End nights. Ideal for couples, theatre lovers and visitors exploring Shaftesbury Avenue and Soho.
💺 Best Seats
Stalls for intimacy and emotional connection; front rows of the Dress Circle for a clear, elevated view of the stage; Grand Circle front and central for good value and atmosphere.
⚠️ Seats to Avoid
Avoid the very back rows of the Grand Circle where the rake and height can reduce detail, and far-side seats on all levels where ornate boxes or pillars may limit sightlines.
Things to Know Before You Go
Where is the Gielgud Theatre located?
At 35 Shaftesbury Avenue, on the corner of Rupert Street in Soho, London W1D 6AR.
Which Tube stations are closest?
Piccadilly Circus (4–5 mins) and Leicester Square (5 mins). Tottenham Court Road is also close.
Which train station is nearest?
Charing Cross is about a 12-minute walk. Waterloo and Euston are one Tube ride away.
How early should I arrive?
Arrive around 30 minutes before showtime to pass bag checks and enjoy the foyer or bars.
Is there a dress code?
No strict dress code. Smart-casual is common, but comfort is most important.
Is the theatre accessible?
Step-free access to the foyer and Stalls via Rupert Street. One wheelchair space available and adapted toilets provided.
Are food and drinks available?
Yes. Bars serve drinks and snacks before the show and during the interval.
Are bags checked at the entrance?
Light bag checks take place. Large items and prohibited objects cannot be brought inside.
🤓 Fun Facts
Opened in 1906 as the Hicks Theatre, named after Seymour Hicks — who once stepped into a leading role to replace his own wife mid-run.
The theatre shares an architect, W.G.R. Sprague, with its sister venue across the street — the Sondheim Theatre.
Renamed in 1994 to honour Sir John Gielgud, one of the greatest Shakespearean actors of the 20th century.
The venue features a famous circular Regency-style staircase, often photographed by visitors.
Refurbishments in 1987 and 2008 restored much of the original Edwardian and Louis XVI detail.
Venue Location
Nearest Tube Stations
- Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly, Bakerloo Zone 1 0.21 km
- Leicester Square Northern, Piccadilly Zone 1 0.33 km
- Tottenham Court Road Northern, Central Zone 1 0.54 km