The Gillian Lynne Theatre London opened in 1973, and was designed by Paul Tvrtkovic at a site that had hosted many forms of entertainment since the 1600s. This area was once a tavern, a saloon, a music hall, and then a theatre bar called the Winter Garden Theatre. This was eventually demolished to make way for the Gillian Lynne Theatre. Being a rather modern theatre, its auditorium is designed to host a selection of unusual plays – its stage, orchestra pit and some of its stalls can be turned 360 degrees. The first production to play this house was The Unknown Soldier and His Wife, starring Peter Ustinov. The musical Grease arrived later that year, and launched the career of film actor Richard Gere. The musical Cats also played at this theatre for a period of nearly 21 years, starring Brian Blessed, Elaine Paige, Bonnie Langford, and a cast of the best singers and dancers London had to offer. The theatre was renamed from New London Theatre to Gillian Lynne Theatre, after famous West End choreographer Dame Gillian Lynne on May 1, 2018.
Venue Details
Address: 166 Drury Ln, London WC2B 5PW, UK
Opened: 1973
Seating Capacity: 1024
Stalls : 732
Circle : 292
Seating Chart
Check out the Gillian Lynne Theatre Seating Plan here.
Now Playing At The Gillian Lynne Theatre London
Practical Information
Accessible Seating
There are two spaces for wheelchair users at S17 & S18 in the Stalls where companions can sit next to you.
Scooter users can access the foyer, but have to transfer to the theatre's wheelchair to access the auditorium. 1 wheelchair transfer space is available in Stalls S19.
Available Facilities
Bar: The theatre has two bars in the main foyer which serves both Stalls and Circle patrons.
Cloakroom: There are cloakroom facilities in the theatre and items cost £1 to check in. Suitcases and pushchairs can be checked.
Guide Dogs: A maximum of 2 guide dogs are allowed in to the auditorium. Alternatively, staff are happy to dog sit.
Toilets: The Gillian Lynne Theatre London has both male and female toilets in foyer and at both Stalls and Dress Circle levels. Access adapted toilets are en route from the lifts to the auditorium.
Handy Tips
- Snacks and drinks in plastic containers are allowed in the auditorium but hot food is prohibited, as is the presence of glass in the auditorium. Disabled customers can take their drinks into the auditorium.
- Keep in mind that the Circle seats are high up, with a steep rake, so be careful when seating yourself.
- The Gillian Lynne theatre London is air conditioned, and therefore can get chilly – be sure to dress accordingly!
Getting There
Tube: Holborn (Piccadilly/Central Lines) and Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line)
Bus: 1, 8, 19, 25, 38, 55, 98, and 242
Overground: Charing Cross Station
Nearest car park: NCP Car Park London Coven, Parker Street
Restaurants near Gillian Lynne Theatre London
1. Circus: Enjoy delicious pan Asian food at this cabaret restaurant with its own burlesque performers, acrobats and dancers.
2. The Rock and Sole Plaice: If you want a truly British experience, visit this restaurant, one of London’s oldest chippies and enjoy the classic crispy battered cod, chips and mushy peas.
3. Shoryu Ramen: Enjoy fluffy Shoryu buns filled with charsui pork, wagyu beef, sushi, sashimi, and the house specialty Hakata Tonkotso ramen, with green tea, sake, plum wine or real wine – you’ll be spoiled for choice!
4. Sway: If you’re up for a bit of dancing after the play, hit up this popular party venue and enjoy craft beers, classic cocktails, pizzas and boards to share!
5. Little Drury: Visit this cozy little restaurant for great cocktails and even better tapas.
More West End Guides
For more West End information, here are some helpful quick links!
Frequently Asked Questions about Gillian Lynne Theatre London
