A Newbies Guide To Seeing A Play In The West End

From what time to turn up to what to wear, it can be hard to know the rules of London’s West End. This guide will take you through everything you need to know whether you’re visiting from overseas or it’s your first time venturing to theatreland. There’s no place more theatrical than London’s West End? The bright lights, the excitement of the big city, and more show tunes than you know what to do with all await you.

Whether you’re a seasoned Londoner who can navigate your way around the labyrinth that is the London tube without batting an eye, or if you’re coming to the capital for the first time hoping to catch a show – we’ve got you covered. This newbie’s guide to seeing a play in The West End, full of facts and tips to make your theatre trip more enjoyable so you can have the best possible time.

Question 1: When I go to the theatre, what should I wear?

Answer: Whatever makes you feel like being yourself! Even though jeans and trainers are OK, many theatregoers prefer a more dressy casual look, especially for evening shows. In the warmer months (June through September), it’s important to wear layers to avoid overheating. Since most London theatres are protected as Grade Listed structures due to their historical and architectural significance, the installation of air conditioning is forbidden. With no air conditioning and hundreds of people in attendance, the auditorium quickly became uncomfortable.

Question 2: What time should I get to the theatre?

Answer: Get at the theatre at least half an hour before the show is scheduled to start. You’ll have plenty of time to clear security, get your seats, and enjoy a beverage before the show starts.

Question 3: Can I carry luggage into a London theatre?

Answer: Check the venue’s website or contact the Front of House staff in advance to learn about their specific policies. However, most London theatres do not permit bulky goods to be left in their cloakrooms or brought into their auditoriums due to limited space and safety considerations.

Question 4: Where can I find affordable seats at London’s theatres?

Booking offers in advance takes the worry out of getting a good deal with popular last-minute schemes, so you can plan your whole trip early and relax on the day. With offers from three major suppliers available in one place, it’s never been easier to find and book cheap theatre tickets for London and the West End.

Question 5: Are accessible seats available for West End productions?

Answer: Tickets for patrons with disabilities must be purchased through the theater’s accessible ticketing system. The website of the venue will usually have a phone number and/or email address for booking access tickets. The best seats for your partial needs might be saved for you by the helpful theatre staff but keep in mind that the architecture of each London theatre varies, making some seats inaccessible — such as those in the Stalls — in others. They can also arrange for any further help you might need (such as operating a lift for easy access, installing a hearing loop, providing a sensory calm down zone, etc.). If there is ever an emergency evacuation, they will know exactly where you are seated to get you out of the cinema without incident. Plus you may also be able to get cheaper tickets for yourself and a friend.

Question 6: Can I record audio or video at the theatre?

Answer: The act of recording a show is strictly forbidden. It’s rude to the performers and other audience members, and it’s against the law. A select few productions permit audience members to record the final bows; however, you should check with the Front of House staff to be sure that this is allowed before pulling out your phone. However, taking a quick snap or selfie before or after the presentation is often OK.

Question 7: Can I buy a programme as a memento for a show in London’s West End?

Broadway productions “playbills” are often given out at no cost at every show detailing the show’s cast and crew. But these are not distributed for free at West End theatres. A programme, the British version of a Playbill, can be purchased at the theatre for £5 to £10. The National Theatre is one of the few theatres outside of London’s West End that distributes free programmes.

Question 8: Can I buy refreshments at London theatres?

Answer: Yes! At the interval/intermission, most West End theatres sell drinks and light food like nuts, crisps, chocolates, and ice cream. Bars close 5 minutes before the concert starts and stay closed during the performance and after the interval, so plan accordingly. There are a few theatres that also include restaurants and cafes, such as the Theatre Royal Drury Lane.

Question 9: What happens if I’m late to the show?

Answer: Different shows may have different late arrival policies, but usually one of two things will occur:

You will be kept outside the theatre until an appropriate interval.
You will be denied access! Not as prevalent as the first choice, but nevertheless the norm for some plays (less so for musicals) and one-act shows (i.e., shows without an interval).

You can find out if there is no late seating for that show by checking the confirmation email you were sent. And if you know you’re going to be late, contact a member of the Front of House staff as soon as you get there.

With our handy and helpful guide to London’s West End you are now armed with all the information you need to get you to the theatre on time, prepared, and ready to take in the production. That leaves you with only one more thing to do… Choose which show you want to see (that is no mean feat with the wide array of productions available at any one time), then sit back and enjoy. We guarantee it won’t be your last visit, theatre is contagious, and you will now have the bug.

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