With over 100 to choose from, London is literally teeming with theatres and it's hard not to stumble upon one. You'll discover the often tumultuous past of London's most famous theatres as you take a wander around the streets.
Originally called the Covent Garden Theatre, The Royal Opera House was opened in 1732 in Covent Garden as one of only two that were allowed to present 'legitimate' theatre. It is home to the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet. In 1808, the theatre suffered from a terrible fire that gutted the original so a new theatre had to be built. However in 1856 this also burnt down. After been renamed The Royal Opera House, a third and final theatre was built in 1892, before 210 million was spent on refurbishing it in 1996.
The Palladium is home to the pantomime, so expect to hear lots of cries of "It's behind you!" The theatre stands on Argyll Street and is nestled neatly between some of London's most famous streets including Oxford Street, Regent Street and Carnaby Street. Its history can be traced back to 1870, when a hall known as The Corinthian Bazaar was built on the site of the Duke of Argyll's residence.
Built around 200m from the site of the original on the Southbank is the modern reconstruction of Shakespeare's Globe, which we know today. It finally opened in 1997 after taking over 20 years to be built and was recreated to reflect as much of the original Globe as possible. It's an absolute must to visit when staying in cheap hotels in the city this summer for a theatre experience unlike any other.
The Royal Albert Hall is a must to visit if you can tear yourself away from the beautiful facade. Used to promote the Arts and Science, it was built to fulfil the vision of Queen Victoria's consort Prince Albert of a 'central hall'. Surrounded by museums and galleries, he requested that it be built at the heart of the South Kensington estate.
Originally called the Covent Garden Theatre, The Royal Opera House was opened in 1732 in Covent Garden as one of only two that were allowed to present 'legitimate' theatre. It is home to the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet. In 1808, the theatre suffered from a terrible fire that gutted the original so a new theatre had to be built. However in 1856 this also burnt down. After been renamed The Royal Opera House, a third and final theatre was built in 1892, before 210 million was spent on refurbishing it in 1996.
The Palladium is home to the pantomime, so expect to hear lots of cries of "It's behind you!" The theatre stands on Argyll Street and is nestled neatly between some of London's most famous streets including Oxford Street, Regent Street and Carnaby Street. Its history can be traced back to 1870, when a hall known as The Corinthian Bazaar was built on the site of the Duke of Argyll's residence.
Built around 200m from the site of the original on the Southbank is the modern reconstruction of Shakespeare's Globe, which we know today. It finally opened in 1997 after taking over 20 years to be built and was recreated to reflect as much of the original Globe as possible. It's an absolute must to visit when staying in cheap hotels in the city this summer for a theatre experience unlike any other.
The Royal Albert Hall is a must to visit if you can tear yourself away from the beautiful facade. Used to promote the Arts and Science, it was built to fulfil the vision of Queen Victoria's consort Prince Albert of a 'central hall'. Surrounded by museums and galleries, he requested that it be built at the heart of the South Kensington estate.
About the Author:
Steve Alexander is a writer with a good knowledge of London. Click here for a detailed guide to the capital with information on top things to do, nightlife and shopping facilities.
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