Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Theatre Royal Drury Lane is a London theatre venue featured on British Theatre. Explore upcoming shows

practical venue guidance

and ticket-booking insights before your visit.

The history of the Theatre Royal

Drury Lane spans over 350 years and 4 different buildings. The first was ordered by King Charles II and opened in 1663 (named the Theatre Royal

Bridges Street). It burnt down in 1672. The second theatre (now titled the Theatre Royal

Drury Lane) was built in 1674. It hosted a vast number of productions during its 117-year run

including The Merchant of Venice (which introduced a naturalistic style of acting)

The School for Scandal (1777

its world premiere)

and Robinson Crusoe. The acting troupe of 1710 (Cibber

Wilks

and Doggett) found themselves the primary object of ridicule in Alexander Pope’s satirical epic the Dunciad. Plans to upgrade and expand the theatre led to its demolition in 1791. The new theatre

now with space for over 3

600 audience members

opened in 1794. The size of the venue allowed it to house spectacular set pieces

including real running water forming a stream and a lake. Despite housing the first ever iron safety curtain

the theatre burned down in 1809. The present Theatre Royal opened on 10 October 1812 with a production of Hamlet. Over the years it has presented the work of Ivor Norvello (1931-1939)

Rodgers and Hammerstein (1946-1958)

and a Monty Python reunion show. In the 21st Century

it has played host to a number of successful musicals

including The Producers

Oliver! and Shrek. It is believed to be one of Britain’s most haunted theatres

with 4 different spirits sighted by actors backstage.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2013 -)
Shrek the Musical (2011)
Oliver! (2008)
The Lord of the Rings (2007)
The Producers (2004)
Anything Goes (2003)
The Witches of Eastwick (2000)
Miss Saigon (1989)
42nd Street (1984)
Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd (1980)

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS:

Wheelchair spaces and transfers available.

Are there adapted toilets?

An adapted toilet is available in the stalls.

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

There is an infrared system working throughout the auditorium.

Are guide dogs and/or hearing dogs permitted?

Access dogs are allowed inside the auditorium. Staff dog-sitting available.

Please contact the theatre directly for further information.