Criterion Theatre
Now Playing: Titanique
A camp musical parody where Céline Dion hijacks Titanic, retelling the doomed romance with pop hits and chaotic comedy.
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What Visitors Say
My family and I thoroughly enjoyed the TiTANiQUE, it is indeed the funniest musical in town. Each performer has been chosen for their role with care, I am sure, and together they give an absolutely sensational performance. The theater is not large, each seat is very comfortable and has a good view. The decor is simply stunning, especially in the main lobby, stairway and the bar area. The location is very near Piccadilly Circus and all main public transport.
Irreverent, joyful, full of character. Some scenes are hilarious. Celine Dion definitely knew what happened a board of “Titanique”. Gorgeous way of spending a Sunday afternoon. We were on the stalls and the view was great. The show runs without an intermission.
Such a fun evening at Titanique! The cast absolutely nailed every song, and the intimate theatre space makes you feel completely immersed in the show. No intervals, so grab your drinks beforehand. A few questionable trolls here and there 😂, but overall it’s a wonderful way to wind down your day.
We had a lovely evening watching Titanic , show was great, but unfortunately I am extremely disappointed with how this theatre handled a lost item situation. I accidentally left my Valentino sunglasses at my seat, and after my husband Chris Burns contacted the theatre giving them my seat number , staff confirmed they had located them . We were given a specific day and time for collection. As we had already left London, we arranged for a friend to travel there on our behalf — only for them to find the place completely closed, with no one available and no response to calls or emails. Since that day, the theatre has completely stopped responding to all communication. We have been entirely ignored despite multiple attempts to follow up. This is incredibly upsetting because these sunglasses are not replaceable — they were left to me by my late mother and hold enormous sentimental value. The lack of care, accountability, and basic communication has been shocking, especially after confirming they had the item. Customer service should not end once the show is over. Being “ghosted” after making arrangements is unacceptable. We travel to London often as passionate theatre lovers, and unfortunately this theatre will now be off our list for future visits. A disappointing experience that has left a lasting negative impression.
Upon arrival we asked about step free access. We were taken through a separate door to the top floor of the theatre by one of the staff members. I have to add that I wish we knew her name so we could thank her again personally because she was amazing. She walked at my pace which wasn't very fast, explained a little about the show. On the way to the auditorium she showed us where the disabled toilet is, took us to our seats, said if we needed anything from the bar they can get it for us and said she'd be there for us at the end of the show. She was there for us as promised to walk myself and my wife back out to of the theatre. The show itself was hilarious the funniest show we have been too and cannot recommend it enough
About Criterion Theatre
Used by the BBC during World War II as an underground broadcasting studio for safety during air raids.
Venue Tips
✨ Best For
Intimate plays, comedies and contemporary productions with strong audience connection. Perfect for evenings out around Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square.
💺 Best Seats
Front and central seats in the Stalls offer the closest connection and best acoustics. Dress Circle front rows give an excellent overview with minimal obstruction. Upper Circle central seats offer value with surprisingly good sightlines.
⚠️ Seats to Avoid
Avoid side seats in the Upper Circle where pillars can restrict views, and very back rows where detail is reduced in the underground auditorium. Some Stalls seats can be narrow for taller guests.
Things to Know Before You Go
Which seats are worth prioritising at Criterion Theatre?
Front and central seats in the Stalls offer the closest connection and best acoustics. Dress Circle front rows give an excellent overview with minimal obstruction. Upper Circle central seats offer value with surprisingly good sightlines. For a safer booking, also note: Avoid side seats in the Upper Circle where pillars can restrict views, and very back rows where detail is reduced in the underground auditorium. Some Stalls seats can be narrow for taller guests. Use that as editorial guidance rather than a guarantee; always check the live seating plan and any seat notes before paying.
Is Criterion Theatre a good venue for seeing Titanique?
Yes, if you book with the production's scale in mind. Titanique is currently listed at Criterion Theatre, so choose seats that suit this staging rather than simply buying the cheapest available ticket. For a first visit, a central view is the least risky option.
What kind of night out does Criterion Theatre suit best?
Criterion Theatre works best for Intimate plays, comedies and contemporary productions with strong audience connection. Perfect for evenings out around Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square. The right choice depends less on dress code and more on matching the room to the production: intimate plays reward proximity, while spectacle-led musicals usually benefit from a more centred overview.
What should I know about access before booking Criterion Theatre?
Check the venue's official access page or box office before booking wheelchair spaces, transfer seats, step-free routes, companion seats or assisted performances. London venues vary sharply by level, and the most comfortable choice is often a specific access seat rather than a general price band.
How early should I arrive at Criterion Theatre?
Aim to be at the doors around half an hour before the performance, and earlier if you need access support, cloakroom time, box-office collection or a quiet drink. For older West End buildings, late arrival can mean stairs, narrow foyers and a less relaxed start.
What is the easiest way to reach Criterion Theatre?
Piccadilly Circus is the simplest station to check first. The venue address in our data is 218-223 Piccadilly, St. James's. For weekend visits, check engineering works and leave a little extra time around the West End and major transport hubs.
Where is the Criterion Theatre located?
At Piccadilly Circus (W1J 9HR), less than a minute from the Tube and close to Regent Street and Leicester Square.
Which Tube stations are closest?
Piccadilly Circus is the closest (Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines). Leicester Square and Green Park are also within walking distance.
How early should I arrive?
Arrive 25–30 minutes early to descend the stairs, pass bag checks and enjoy the foyer before the show.
Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code — comfortable, everyday clothes are fine. Guests often dress up for evenings or celebrations.
Is the theatre accessible?
Step-free access is available only to the Upper Circle via Jermyn Street. Other levels require stairs due to the historic building layout.
Are food and drinks available?
Yes. Bars serve drinks and snacks before the show and during the interval. Hot food from outside is not permitted.
Are bags checked at the entrance?
Yes. Light security checks take place before entry. Large luggage cannot be brought inside.
🤓 Fun Facts
The auditorium is entirely underground — making it one of the most unusual theatres in the West End.
During the Blitz, the BBC used the theatre as a secure studio, broadcasting news and entertainment from underground.
The theatre began life as part of a grand restaurant complex before being converted into a performance space during construction.
Early productions included W.S. Gilbert’s ‘Topsyturveydom’ in 1874.
The building is Grade II* listed for its exceptional Victorian interior and architectural detail.
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Nearest Tube Stations
- Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly, Bakerloo Zone 1 0.02 km
- Leicester Square Northern, Piccadilly Zone 1 0.40 km
- Charing Cross Bakerloo, Northern Zone 1 0.52 km