FAQ
How can I find out what’s going on in the West End?
London has a great mix of long-running shows such as Wicked, Matilda and The Play That Goes Long, as well as new productions. We’ll be updating this page with critics’ top picks for London’s best musicals and plays, so be sure to check back for all the latest reviews and recommendations for upcoming theater performances.
The Telegraph Theater also has a range of reviews, interviews and preview features.
How much does a West End ticket cost on average?
West End ticket prices vary depending on seat and venue. Cheap tickets to London shows usually start at around £20, up to £60 for seats closer to the stage, and premium tickets can cost over £100 for the best seats. However, you can also find great discounts in the West End. Check out Telegraph Tickets for current London ticket sales.
What are the latest West End shows?
Recent additions to London’s West End include the acclaimed stage version of A Little Life starring James Norton. British wartime musical “Operation Mincemeat.” And then there’s the toe-tapping, wonderful musical “Crazy For You.” Book your tickets now for the best new shows.
Can I change the date/time of my theater ticket?
Many theaters have a policy that once tickets are booked, they cannot be canceled or moved to a different date. However, the situation is different. Some venues may be more flexible about this, especially for sold-out shows. Please check the terms and conditions on the website you booked from or call the ticket office.
What’s the best way to go to the theater?
If you’re seeing a show in the West End, the easiest way to get to the theater is usually by public transport. Traffic in central London tends to be very congested, especially around rush hour. West End theaters are close to a number of underground stations, including Charing Cross, Leicester Square, Piccadilly and Tottenham Court Road, with underground lines including Central, Piccadilly, Northern and Jubilee. To plan your route, visit TfL’s website. You can try taking the bus (although it’s slower during rush hour), walking or cycling if the weather is nice.
Can I take my child to a non-children’s theater performance?
Many shows have a specific age recommendation and younger children are not admitted. That information can be found on production booking websites such as Family Theater Guide or Telegraph Tickets. These recommendations are made based on content and potentially scary, disturbing, or adult elements. However, since every child is different, it is also up to parents to determine if their child is ready for a particular show. Think about the story, production elements (such as loud sounds), and length. Even adults may struggle with long shows.
Are there age restrictions for theater performances?
Yes, that’s right. Like movies, theater shows also have age recommendations, usually suggesting a minimum age for the audience (such as 6 years or older), and children must be accompanied by an adult. The Family Theater Guide and Telegraph ticket booking site list recommended ages for all family shows. You can also find that information on individual theater websites or by calling the box office.
How do I book theater tickets for a large group?
Many theater websites offer help and advice on group bookings, and some even have dedicated ticket office phone lines. In fact, it’s a great way to get great deals on tickets and book cheap tickets to big shows. I also enjoy going out in groups with lots of friends and family. Check out all the latest shows suitable for group bookings at Telegraph Tickets.
What can’t I bring into the theater?
Almost all theaters, especially in the West End, carry out bag checks upon entry. Security guards will check for hazardous items, i.e. potential weapons or other sharp objects, fireworks or pyrotechnics, or hazardous materials. Most theaters also prohibit drugs and alcohol, but some theaters do not allow outside food or drinks (other than sealed water bottles) because they serve food and drink inside the theater. Some venues may ask you to refrain from bringing large luggage. The latest information can be found on the theater homepage.
Can I still watch the theater even if I’m late?
That’s generally true. Ushers tend to wait until an appropriate time in the production, such as a scene change, to escort customers to their seats. If you arrive significantly late, some theaters may ask you to watch the remainder of the first half on a screen just outside the auditorium and allow you to enter after the intermission. If you arrive on time but your companion is likely to be late, you can leave your ticket at the ticket office.
What is the difference between stall seats, grand circle seats, and dress circle seats?
A stall ticket means you sit on the first floor of the theater, with seating starting right next to the stage and running all the way to the back. These tend to have more expensive tickets because they are closest to the action. This is a high-class dress club. Seating here is usually a little cheaper, but you still get great views from the dress circle. The dress circle is often spread out over the back half of the stall, which is especially great for performances like musicals that involve a lot of singing and dancing. This is because you can see the entire stage from the sky.
Grand Circle is on another level, so you can usually find cheap tickets here. However, seats in the Grand Circle can be a great deal. You might not have the best view, but you’ll still feel like a part of the show, and it’ll cost less. So if you want the best guaranteed seats, the central stalls or near the beginning of the dress circle are the best places to go. However, if you are looking for cheap tickets, Grand Circle is the place to go.
