Did you know that there is an estimated 250 theatres in London?
Sure, you’ve probably heard of the National Theatre, Shakespeare’s Globe, The Old Vic, The Royal Opera House, you know, some of the world-famous destinations.
But the capital’s theatre scene is one of the jewels in London’s cultural crown and there are so many venues across the city to see, from huge halls to cosy independent theatres.
And these theatres play host to a huge array of events, from some of the world’s best musicals to seasonal spectaculars, critically-acclaimed plays and everything in between.
You’d be crazy not to see a show while you’re there! But if you’d like the inside scoop on where to go and how to catch a show whilst avoiding the hustle and bustle, here are some of London’s lesser-known theatres.
Jacksons Lane, Highgate
Jacksons is an energetic cultural venue, located inside a Grade II listed Edwardian Church. The theatre is open all year round and has a capacity of 167 for the main stage, as well as being home to an 80-capacity dance studio.
The theatre produces and runs a range of exciting shows, as well as hosting dance troupes from around the globe. But more than this, the team at Jacksons want to promote engagement with the arts and involve the local community in its events.
Etcetera Theatre, Camden
Etcetera Theatre is one of the smallest in London with a capacity of just 42 seats, making it perfect for cosy and quiet viewing. It is located above a pub in Camden, so it’s also the ideal place to grab a drink before and after the show.
The company that runs Etcetera have hosted some of the most innovative fringe theatre and comedy performances in the city, since its opening back in 1986. In fact, it is the founding venue of the Camden Fringe.
Bush Theatre, Shepherd’s Bush
Bush Theatre is one of the top independent theatres in the whole of London. And that comes as no surprise with the talented Lynette Linton at the helm as Artistic Director.
The venue is home to two main spaces, the larger Holloway Theatre, as well as a smaller studio for more intimate performances. There are lots of shows that have begun their life at this wonderful theatre, before going on to star at the West End.
This year, they are hosting big shows with impressive names like August in England featuring Lenny Henry.
Orange Tree Theatre, Richmond
The Orange Tree Theatre is set in an impressive Gothic building that was actually an abandoned 1867 primary school. Now transformed into a welcoming space for art and creativity, the theatre has 180 seats and was built in the round, so the stage is in the centre.
The venue continues to share impressive productions, with Paul Miller as the Artistic Director. If you choose to go to this theatre, you can expect everything from psychedelic theatre to classic Shakespeare plays.
Arcola Theatre, Dalston
The Arcola Theatre is built in a former Colourworks paint factory, in the up-and-coming Dalston area which is quickly establishing itself as a cool, eclectic location. This is no surprise given that Arcola Theatre is located there, that and all the great pubs nearby.
The theatre boasts an impressive billing of plays, operas, musicals and more. Plus, there are two theatre spaces and a cafe bar inside.
The Artistic Director is Mehmet Ergen, who produces trailblazing shows original works and rare gems, alongside some of the theatre classics.
Rose Theatre, Kingston
The Rose Theatre is the perfect place to go if you want to see a more well-known production, whilst still enjoying a smaller, independent theatre experience.
There is enough seating for 822 people, so it is certainly one of the bigger theatres on our list, but this doesn’t make it any less special.
Here you can enjoy everything from Shakespeare classics to musicals, seasonal shows and family entertainment like Room on the Broom.
Network Theatre, Waterloo
The Network Theatre is a truly secret venue and a hidden gem, tucked away underneath the arches at Waterloo Station. This black box studio is run by volunteers in the local theatre company and offers an exciting range of productions, from contemporary to classic shows.
This unique location also hosts visiting theatre companies and events, and as a result, both the seating and stage are easy to change and transform according to the needs of the production.
The Hen and Chickens Theatre, Highbury
Another theatre located above a pub, the Hen and Chickens Theatre is a very intimate venue in a Victorian-era building. With just 54 seats, this is a very cosy theatre, but despite its small size, The Hen and Chickens has hosted everyone from popular theatre groups to big names like Jimmy Carr and Russell Brand.
This is because the directors of the venue have favoured lighthearted productions like comedy events for over 15 years. They also aim to provide support for striving local performers.
Cutty Sark Theatre, Greenwich
The Cutty Sark is the world’s last surviving 19th-century tea clipper. Located on a dry dock in King William Walk, you’ve probably heard about this as a tourist attraction, you may have even been there yourself. But did you know that at night, this unique venue also hosts a range of performances?
After hours The Cutty Sark transforms into a beautiful 85-seat studio theatre called The Michael Edwards Studio. From local performers to big names in comedy like Josh Widdicombe and Ross Noble, there are so many wonderful shows available to watch.
Tara Theatre, Earlsfield
Another one of London’s best fringe theatres is Tara Theatre. The theatre’s Artistic Director, Abdul Shayak joined in 2020 and has since worked very hard to bring together a range of Asian actors and producers to transform the theatre into a cultural hub.
The aim is to tell engaging stories through an Asian Lens. This offers visitors a truly unique and wonderful experience and is one of the most eclectic and important lesser-known theatres in London.
If you stop by to catch a show, you can expect emotional dramas, lighthearted family sitcoms and everything in between.
