Shakespeare's Globe is a reconstruction of the Globe Theatre, which was completed in 1997. I…read morevisited with my husband on a recent trip to London earlier this month and had a great time. There are a couple of ways to experience the Globe. You can attend a performance (they typically have 1-2 performances per day at a range of rates) or you can tour the theater. The performance times didn't work well with our schedule (such a short trip), but we were able to fit in a tour, which was great. Our tour guide was wonderful. We started the tour inside the attached visitor/admission center, where he provided some context. Then we walked over to the theater itself and sat on each of the three levels to get a sense of the different individuals who attended Shakespeare's plays and how they would have experienced the performances they attended. We learned that the theater was built in 1599, when there was only bridge connecting Bankside and London. People either took barges across the river or - if they didn't have the money for a boat - walked to and across the bridge. We learned how much a performance cost for people sitting in different sections of the theater. We learned that the Globe burned down during a performance of Henry VIII in 1613 (the theater was rebuilt the following year but closed by 1642 and torn down in 1645). The modern recreation you can visit now is close to the original site (you can find the original site just a few steps away) and based on historical drawings and designs. It's as close to Shakespeare's Globe as we can get, and it's an incredible thing to see and experience. If you can fit in a performance, I'm sure it's amazing. But the tour was pretty great, too. I learned a lot about Shakespeare, the Globe, and London. We had a pretty tight schedule due to it being a shorter trip, and a tour of the Globe was a great way to take in such a historic and important site.

Even if you're not planning on seeing a show here, do the tour!…read more William Shakespeare's company built The Globe Theater very close to this spot in 1599. This is a replica of Shakespeare's theater which was built in the late 1990s. Originally, the idea was to mostly perform Shakespeare plays during the summer months, demonstrating exactly how those plays might have been seen in Elizabethan/Jacobean London. So, all-male casts, no modern technology, etc. Nowadays they make a lot more concessions with the aim of putting on enjoyable shows, but this is still an outdoor venue with a courtyard "groundlings" area that has no seats. The outer ring is covered and has wooden bench seating, with cushions available to rent. If you're a tourist who has spent the day hoofing it around this great city, you should probably make sure you have a seat. Furthermore, you might consider that a back-row seat would allow you to lean back, which you can't do in the other rows. This is very much a true professional theater experience. It's not just a gimmick; the original artistic director was no less than Sir Mark Rylance so you know you are going to see a high-quality production. However, the expertise on hand regarding the history of William Shakespeare makes for a very informative tour. I've done it multiple times and always loved it. But the production I saw of A Midsummer Night's Dream was lots of fun, easy to recommend. They involve the audience a lot, even bringing people on stage during actual scenes. Anyone who considers themselves a theater nerd owes themselves a visit. I strongly recommend the tour, and if you can make it to an actual show, you won't regret it. There are concession stands with a decent selection of snacks and drinks, alcoholic and otherwise. And there's a very large gift shop which was closed at the end of the show I went to, sadly. I would have bought something. But that's normal. NOTE: a second stage has been added to this complex, the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. It's a traditional indoor theater. If you're booking tickets, you might want to make sure you know which stage it's on, as that greatly impacts the experience. ANOTHER NOTE: I spoke to some people who believed the final scene of the movie Hamnet was filmed here. Although that might sound right, it is incorrect. That sequence was all done at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire.

We saw Les Misérables and it was phenomenal!! I cried and laughed and was so taken by the voices of…read morethe entire cast! My friend has seen this show on broadway (NEW YORK) and she said this cast and theater was SO MUCH better! Even after the show finished and the cast were taking their bows it brought tears to my eyes again because of how amazing they were. Standing ovation was the least the audience could do after this breath taking performance!!

It was almost surreal to be able to purchase last minute tickets to see Les Mis at Queen's Theatre…read more I was in town for a few days and couldn't let the opportunity slip away. First of all, the theatre is beautiful. We had seats with limited view. I wasn't able to see the front, left portion of the stage but it really didn't take away anything from the performance. The staff members were very helpful. They were plentiful and led everyone to their seats. The line and security went rather quickly. Everyone had an opportunity to use the toilet during the intermission and didn't miss a second. I loved how everything started on time...I say this because this never happens in the US haha. If you're ever in London, take a few hours and watch a show at this theatre. Extremely worth it and forever memorable.

THE premiere artistic theater company in London and one of the best in the world…read more Its rare to see plays produced at this quality and on this scale. If you're a theater lover, you will love whatever you see here.

We dined at Lasdun before attending a performance of "Nye". The food and service at the restaurant…read morewere excellent. Salad, main course and dessert were all wonderful. Add a bottle of Veuve Cliquot and that's a perfect prelude to an evening of theater. "Nye" and Michael Sheen were wonderful. A deeply moving account of the man behind the founding of the National Health Service. At the conclusion, when they projected the improved health statistics since the inception of NHS, there were many watery eyes, including mine. "WELL DONE" cast and crew!

Incredible performance by the actors of his Majesty's theater, the longest running show for phantom…read moreof the opera in West End over 40 years. In this case, the show aged well, and the props and costumes have clearly had time and money invested as this was the best rendition of Phantom I've seen to date. There was fire, light effects, great structures and hidden trapdoors, fake balconies, even a mysterious Houdini chair (no spoilers) and the production of Phantom here is clearly worth the full house it had tonight. Standing ovation at the end and tons of fun souvenirs to takeaway memories of the show. I sat in A21, center of the front row of balcony, and the view was perfect, showing just the bottom of the stage up. If I leaned forward, I could see into the pit which the ground floor seats could not. All the music was played by the incredible orchestra in the pit, Four private boxes at the front sides were filled with two persons each, which could be a fun return trip. I hope to definitely be back for another viewing some day. Incredible!

We had a fantastic visit to His Majesty's Theatre to attend "Phantom of the Opera". His Majesty's…read moreTheatre is a historic West End theatre located at 57 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4QL, best known as the long-time home of the musical The Phantom of the Opera. The theatre's name changes with the gender of the reigning monarch, reverting to His Majesty's Theatre in May 2023 following the accession of King Charles III. The history of His Majesty's Theatre has a rich tale spanning over 300 years and four different buildings on the same Haymarket site in London's West End. It is one of the few theatres whose name changes with the gender of the reigning British monarch. First Theatre (1705-1789): Opened as the Queen's Theatre in April 1705 by architect and playwright John Vanbrugh during the reign of Queen Anne. Due to licensing laws, it quickly became an opera house, and George Frideric Handel premiered over 25 of his operas there. Upon the accession of George I in 1714, it was renamed the King's Theatre. This building was destroyed by a fire in 1789. Second Theatre (1791-1867): A new, larger theatre, also known as the King's Theatre, opened in 1791. It hosted London premieres of operas by Mozart and Beethoven, and in the mid-19th century became renowned for romantic ballet, with famous ballerinas performing the works of Jules Perrot. When Queen Victoria ascended the throne in 1837, it was renamed Her Majesty's Italian Opera House (later just Her Majesty's Theatre). This building also fell victim to fire in 1867. Third Theatre (1868-1896): A third structure was built within the shell of the old one in 1868. After remaining dark for several years due to a rent dispute, it was used for a period by a Christian revivalist movement before returning to theatrical use, hosting the first complete English performance of Wagner's Ring cycle and appearances by Sarah Bernhardt. It was eventually demolished in 1892 as it had become technically outmoded. Fourth (Current) Theatre (1897-present): The current French Renaissance-style building was commissioned by actor-manager Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree and opened on April 28, 1897, as Her Majesty's Theatre. Tree produced spectacular Shakespearean plays and literary adaptations and even established the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in an apartment he built for himself in the theatre's dome. The current theatre is very well organized. The audience was very respectful during the show and did not seem overly crowded. However, you should be aware the restroom facilities are very small (remember, it's an old building) so plan accordingly! We both look forward to to going back when we return to London!

The acoustics are good and the seats are reliable comfortable…read more It's difficult to find the correct entrance for a particular second of seating and the signage is poor. I saw "Fiddler on the Roof." It was very good, also in several cases the male casting was weak. The females performers were all excellent!

BEWARE!!! If you choose to attend a production here, the staff are monsters. If you end up in a…read morehospital and can't attend the show, there is no refund or understanding on their part. Despite me showing proof of being in the hospital with receipts and time stamps, there is was no reprieve, no refunds not even an offer to attend on a different day. They were rude and curt. Really a shame to treat theatre patrons this way.

What a fantastic venue! We went to see "A Christmas Carol" play at this theater and the production…read morewas just perfect. The stage was located in the middle with the audience sitting all around it. It felt like we were part of the play. It was nothing like the theaters in the US. We loved it. Can't wait to be back in London and see another play at the Old Vic!

Love The Old Vic! It oozes history and class. The interior decor is stunning and the exterior looks…read morepretty swell too especially when lit up at night. I was so excited to be there for one of the previews of 'Other Desert Cities' and curious as to how that would work with the theatre having just been reconfigured to 'in the round'. It actually worked very well, and while we in the upper level, I can imagine it would be particularly interesting to be in the seats that were vitrually part of the set. I think I spied Melvin Bragg Down there. Who-ever it was he seemed to enjoy the show as much as us. OK perhaps it wasn't what I would call must-see theatre but it had a little something for everyone, and despite its dark nature in places, we had plenty of knowing belly laughs too. Since press night its been garnering a solid four stars. Perhaps because the show was in preview we were able to bag reasonably priced tickets at the box office direct. The staff were very friendly and helpful when we popped in the day before to check on availability. If there was a down-side it was that the seats were uncomfortable and the leg room very cramped, and thats coming from someone who is just 5ft & 2 inches! My companion had another foot on me and found the cramped seating a distraction from the show. Perhaps the more expensive seats are more comfortable. Wish everywhere had seats as cosy and roomy as The National Theatre! Conveniently located just along the road from Waterloo station for tube, rail and taxis.

My second show in the original land of Broadway…read more.. This is my second favorite show of all time (Jersey Boys being my #1.) The sequence, the singing, the acting, the sets - everything was divine, just like the movie. Highly recommended!

Highly recommended! It was my first time watching this show…read more I usually go to New York for Broadway and didn't know Broadway shows are big in London too. I've always wanted to see this show and am glad I chose to see it here. It wasn't packed, so I was able to get a good seat. I really enjoyed the show.

Watched Matilda while visiting London. Show is amazing for all ages. The view from dress circle was…read moregood. The stage and effects were brilliant. The place was clean as well. Would recommend this if you are looking for a light and enjoyable show.

Colourful, energetic, inspired and captivating, Matilda is everything a musical suitable for…read morechildren should be! I was tempted to take a photo of the wonderful set but refrained as I know it would be a shame to spoil the pleasant surprise of seeing it for the first time for anyone planning to. Refreshing in its differences to the film and funny both to children and adults alike, Matilda must be a great musical for a family night out in the centre of London.   There's a hint of magic, masterful choreography and well positioned lighting. Plus, there is even entertainment during the interval and they sell slush-puppies! Oh the rottenly devilishly childish brilliance of it all! What more could you ask for do I hear you say? Well it pains me to say that I felt some of the lyrics in the songs got lost in translation and were more complicated that necessary; and the songs perhaps lacked a certain hook. Nevertheless, there were some memorable numbers that were beautifully sung and played. I thought it was a nice touch to see the musicians come up on stage at the end; deservedly so. Truly a joyous show that I would happily recommend to anyone unless they really hated children, because let's face it, the children are the winners in this show; no room for haters (one Ms Trunchbull is enough!)

Moulin Rouge was amazing! When you walk in the red lights and music set the tone for a great party!…read moreEvery bit of the stage was adorned with a set that dazzled! The performers were so good and the songs were thrilling and made you want to sing along! We hit margaritas at intermission (they were strong and fantastic) then back to the show! You have to experience this for yourself! We're glad that we saw it here versus Paris because we wouldn't have understood one word!

I bought a last minute ticket for Moulin Rouge and saw the show earlier this evening. The theatre,…read morethe set design, the talented cast, and immersive experience were wonderful. As for the actual show, I reaaally wanted to love it, but it missed the mark for me in many ways. The mixup of pop songs was gimmicky and didn't always fit the scene. The intro and outro dance numbers were so fun to watch, I was expecting that cabaret style throughout the show, but it didn't deliver. Also, they couldn't pick a better song than Katy Perry's 'firework' for Satine's solo? As far as the theatre experience, I had a seat in the stalls Row G and it was so close to the stage with a great view of the performers. Leg room is a little tight. The bar is just outside and downstairs to the seating area, it has a nice vintage theme to it and a special drink menu for the show. I ordered the Parisian Passion cocktail which was really nice and not too sweet.

Goosebumps was basically my childhood. Your popularity was determined by how many books from the…read moreseries you bought in on reading day (big bags were needed...), and I'd watch the show religiously. In fact, I now own it on DVD. So when they announced an immersive theatre production based on the stories at the Vaults in London, I HAD to go along. Tucked away in the Vaults under Waterloo station, the atmosphere began early as we walked through the graffiti-d tunnel to the entrance. Inside, they had a bar and food area, as well as displays of masks and other creepy paraphernalia to ramp up the excitement factor. After we'd gone through to the main room, we were split into groups and led through a maze of rooms telling Goosebumps stories - but reworked for the adult audience. I don't want to give much away, but I jumped, laughed and screamed plenty throughout. The cast were captivating in their performances, and I was incredibly impressed at the detail and innovative thinking that had gone into the sets. The only downside was 90minutes without being able to go to the loo (especially after a syringe Cosmopolitan cocktail in the waiting area). Oh, and the fact that it ended. I could happily have spent another hour being told the stories (with a loo break, obviously though). It's on until early June, so definitely get your hands on a ticket - it's totally worth it, whether you were a childhood (or adult) fan of the series or not. Adventurer beware, you're in for a scare...

A 90 minutes immersive experience in the Vaults, just next to Waterloo station (not easy though to…read morefind, thus arrive early). Either you already now about Goosebumps stories from your childhood or no, it is sure that you will have a great time. Actors guide you from room to room to experience different stories - you wil be splitted into groups as soon as the show starts, following different paths till the ending scene that you finally get back all together. The atmoshpere is spooky but not scary. If they only had a little more horror scenes to become more adult/horror friendly, then I would go for a 5 star review. Also, the ending seems poor according to all you have experienced tiil that time. Background music all the time; the amazing Tiger Lillies' spooky soundtracks.