Shaftesbury Theatre

Now Playing: Just For One Day - The Live Aid Musical

Relive the day that music brought the world together with JUST FOR ONE DAY - The Live Aid Musical
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From £25
Shaftesbury Theatre
13+

Upcoming Performances

  • Fri 12 Dec
    19:30
  • Sat 13 Dec
    14:30, 19:30
  • Mon 15 Dec
    19:30
  • Tue 16 Dec
    19:30
  • Wed 17 Dec
    14:30, 19:30

About Shaftesbury Theatre

Shaftesbury Theatre is a grand 1,400-seat West End venue on Shaftesbury Avenue, known for large-scale musicals and a colourful history. Opened in 1911, it survived bomb damage, closure threats and structural collapse, and is now one of London’s most atmospheric and best-equipped theatres. Today it hosts major productions like Mrs Doubtfire and Just For One Day in a lively setting close to Covent Garden.
🏆 Notable Record

Hair (1968–1973) became its most iconic run, helping define the theatre’s identity and influencing West End musical culture.

Venue Tips

✨ Best For

Big musicals, family crowds, first-time visitors to the West End and groups looking for high-energy nights near Covent Garden.

💺 Best Seats

Stalls centre for immersion and vocal clarity; Royal Circle front rows for the best elevated view of choreography; Grand Circle centre for strong value with panoramic sightlines.

⚠️ Seats to Avoid

Avoid far-side Grand Circle due to angle and distance, and any seats partially blocked by pillars or railings (marked at booking).

Things to Know Before You Go

Where is the Shaftesbury Theatre located?

At 210 Shaftesbury Avenue, close to Covent Garden and Tottenham Court Road.

Which Tube stations are closest?

Tottenham Court Road (4 minutes), Holborn (7 minutes), Covent Garden (6 minutes).

Which train station is nearest?

Charing Cross is the nearest major mainline station, around 15 minutes on foot.

How early should I arrive?

Arrive at least 30 minutes before curtain up to pass security checks and enjoy the foyer or bars.

Is there a dress code?

No formal dress code — smart casual is typical, but comfort is key.

Is the theatre wheelchair accessible?

Yes. Level access to foyer and wheelchair spaces in the Stalls. Accessible toilet available.

Are food and drinks available?

Yes, bars serve snacks and drinks before the show and during the interval.

Are bags checked at the entrance?

Yes, routine security includes bag checks. Large luggage is not permitted.

🤓 Fun Facts

Opened on Boxing Day 1911 as the New Prince’s Theatre with The Three Musketeers.

Renamed Shaftesbury Theatre in 1963 and is the only surviving original theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue.

Hair ran here from 1968 to 1973 and famously closed early when a section of the ceiling collapsed.

The building was saved from redevelopment after a public campaign in the 1970s.

Owned by the Theatre of Comedy Company since 1984, whose founder was Ray Cooney.

A major 2006 refurbishment upgraded stage technology and comfort while preserving Edwardian features.

Venue Location

Nearest Tube Stations

  • Tottenham Court Road Northern, Central Zone 1 0.32 km
  • Covent Garden Piccadilly Zone 1 0.35 km
  • Holborn Central, Piccadilly Zone 1 0.41 km