Lyceum Theatre

Lyceum Theatre is a London theatre venue featured on British Theatre. Explore upcoming shows

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The Old Lyceum Theatre was built in 1765

producing plays and musical entertainments. Between 1794 and 1809 the building served various purposes

including a circus

a chapel

a concert room

and an exhibition room for the first waxworks displayed by Madame Tussaud. It was used by the Drury Lane Company between 1809 and 1812

before being rebuilt in 1816 as The English Opera House. A fire destroyed it in 1830. A new site opened in 1834 under the name Theatre Royal Lyceum and English Opera House

championing English opera with productions such as The Mountain Sylph and Fair Rosamund. The emphasis towards opera would slowly decline until the theatre started producing plays again from 1844. Notable productions of the 19th Century were The Bells (150 performances)

Charles 1 (180)

and Hamlet (200)

all starring Henry Irving. Bram Stoker was working as a business manager during Irving’s tenure at the theatre

and the actor served as the real-life inspiration for Count Dracula in the novel Dracula

which would later be produced on the Lyceum stage (much to Stoker’s disappointment

Irving did not agree to perform in the adaptation). The 20th Century was a time of fluctuation for the theatre

with the theatre closing in 1939

being converted into a ballroom in 1951 (hosting performances by big bands and rock bands such as The Police

The Clash

The Smiths

Bob Marley

and Genesis)

and finally going dark in 1986. It was finally restored and renovated in 1996

where it began producing musicals. The Lion King

its current production

has been running since 1999.

The Lion King (24 September 1999 -)
Oklahoma! (February 1999 – June 1999)
Jesus Christ Superstar (19 November 1996 – 28 March 1998)

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS:

Wheelchair spaces and transfer seats available.

Are there adapted toilets?

Adapted toilets are available.

ASSISTED PERFORMANCES:Are there facilities for the hard-of-hearing?

There is an infrared system working throughout the auditorium. Sign-language interpreted performances available.

Are guide dogs and/or hearing dogs permitted?

Access dogs are allowed inside the auditorium. Staff available to dog sit.

Please contact the theatre directly for further information.