About the Gillian Lynne Theatre

The Gillian Lynne Theatre is one of London's iconic West End venues, located at 166 Drury Lane, Covent Garden, London. It is currently owned and operated by The Really Useful Group, a production company founded by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Situated in the heart of Covent Garden, the Gillian Lynne Theatre stands out as a space that has hosted many celebrated productions and continues to attract audiences from all over the world. The theatre was renamed in 2018 in honor of the legendary choreographer and director Gillian Lynne, who was best known for her contributions to productions such as Cats and The Phantom of the Opera. It was the first West End theatre to be named after a non-royal woman, celebrating Lynne's impact on the performing arts.

History of the Gillian Lynne Theatre

The Gillian Lynne Theatre was originally opened as the New London Theatre in 1973, replacing the previous Winter Garden Theatre that had been demolished in the late 1950s. Designed by architect Paul Tvrtkovic and Sean Kenny, the theatre featured a modernist approach with a flexible performance space that allowed for unique stage configurations. It was built to reflect the evolving needs of theatre productions in the late 20th century, with a design that enabled versatility and immersive experiences for audiences. Over the years, the theatre has been home to several notable productions, establishing its reputation as a dynamic and important part of London’s West End theatre scene.

Seating Capacity and Amenities

The Gillian Lynne Theatre has a seating capacity of 1,024, arranged across two levels: the Stalls and the Circle. The seating is designed to provide excellent views of the stage, with a particular emphasis on creating an intimate atmosphere despite its sizable capacity.

The theatre offers a range of amenities for audience comfort, including bars on each level where guests can enjoy refreshments before the show and during intermission. It is also fully accessible to patrons with disabilities, offering step-free access, wheelchair spaces, and accessible restrooms. Additionally, the theatre provides hearing assistance devices for those who are hard of hearing, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the magic of live theatre.

Current Running Shows

Currently, the Gillian Lynne Theatre is home to the critically acclaimed production "The Lehman Trilogy", a captivating play that tells the story of the rise and fall of the Lehman Brothers through the lens of family drama. This show has received rave reviews for its storytelling, direction, and performances, making it a must-see for theatre lovers visiting London.

Notable Shows at the Gillian Lynne Theatre

The Gillian Lynne Theatre has hosted a variety of notable productions throughout its history, perhaps most famously "Cats", which ran from 1981 to 2002 and became one of the longest-running shows in West End history. Other major productions include "War Horse", which moved audiences with its powerful narrative and innovative use of puppetry, and "School of Rock: The Musical", another Andrew Lloyd Webber hit that brought high-energy music and humor to the stage. Each of these shows contributed to the theatre’s reputation as a hub for groundbreaking and beloved productions.

How to Reach the Gillian Lynne Theatre

The Gillian Lynne Theatre is conveniently located in Covent Garden, making it easily accessible by various modes of public transportation:

• Bus: The nearest bus stops are at Aldwych and Holborn Station, served by routes 1, 8, 19, 25, 38, 55, and 98.
• Tube: The closest Underground stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line) and Holborn (Central and Piccadilly Lines), both within a short walking distance.
• Train: For those arriving by train, Charing Cross Station is the nearest railway station, approximately a 15-minute walk from the theatre.
• Parking: Parking in central London can be challenging, but the theatre recommends using Q-Park Covent Garden, which is a 5-minute walk away and offers a theatre discount when tickets are validated at the venue.

Food Places Nearby

The Gillian Lynne Theatre's central location in Covent Garden means that there are plenty of fantastic food options nearby, suitable for a pre-theatre meal or a post-show bite. Some popular choices include:

• Dishoom Covent Garden: A trendy spot offering Bombay-inspired dishes, perfect for a flavorful and vibrant dining experience.
• Flat Iron Covent Garden: Known for its affordable and delicious steaks, Flat Iron offers a simple yet satisfying menu ideal for a quick bite before the show.
• The Ivy Market Grill: A classic choice, providing a mix of British cuisine and international flavors in a beautiful, stylish setting. Great for those looking for a more formal dining experience.
• Cafe Pacifico: For a more relaxed, lively atmosphere, Cafe Pacifico offers authentic Mexican food and a wide selection of margaritas, making it a great choice for groups.

Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a special dining experience, Covent Garden has a diverse array of options that will suit your tastes before or after your theatre visit.