If you’ve ever stepped out of Victoria Station, you couldn’t possibly miss the Apollo Victoria Theatre. It’s sitting right opposite, and it is easily one of the most stunning spots in the West End. It actually started life back in 1930 as a massive Art Deco cinema—the New Victoria—before being converted into a proper live theatre in the early 1980s.
These days, of course, everyone knows it as the permanent home of Wicked. It’s been running there for absolute ages, drawing in millions of theatregoers from all over the shop. Inside, the auditorium is just brilliant—they’ve done a lovely job restoring the original Art Deco look—so the atmosphere is fantastic before the show even starts. If you’re looking for a proper London night out, you really can’t beat it.
If you’re looking to sort out a proper weekend treat, you honestly can’t go wrong with a trip to see Wicked the musical at the Apollo Victoria London. It’s been a massive West End staple since it first opened way back in 2006, and it’s still pulling in huge crowds. Over the years, it’s bagged some pretty major awards too—including the Olivier for Most Popular Show and a Whatsonstage award for Best West End Show—so you know you’re in for a brilliant night out.
The Untold Story of Oz
The best bit about Wicked The Musical Show is how it completely turns The Wizard of Oz on its head. Instead of the story we all know, you get everything from Elphaba’s point of view—the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West. It’s actually a really lovely, clever look at friendship and what it’s like when you don’t quite fit in. You get a proper look into her childhood, her bond with her sister, and the real story behind those famous silver shoes that Dorothy ends up swiping later on.
Plus, the music is absolutely cracking. It was written by the legendary American composer Stephen Schwartz (the genius behind Godspell and Pippin), and it honestly gives you proper goosebumps. It’s just a brilliant night out, all round.
A Proper Star-Studded Cast
The cast for this run is absolutely stellar. They’ve managed to get Rachel Tucker back as Elphaba, fresh off the boat from Broadway, which is massive news because she is incredible in the role. Starring alongside her is Aussie star Suzie Mathers, playing a brilliantly bubbly Glinda, with Anita Dobson stepping in as Madame Morrible and fan-favourite Oliver Savile as Fiyero.
Just a heads-up: The Wicked The Musical show timing 2 hours and 45 minutes (including the interval, of course), and it’s best suited for kids aged 8 and up.
Planning Your Visit
Getting to the Apollo Victoria is a doddle, really. It’s sitting right on Wilton Road, spot on across from Victoria Station. Because it’s so central, you’re only a short stroll away from massive landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park, which is handy if you fancy a bit of sightseeing beforehand.
Here’s the best way to get yourself there:
By Tube: Easily your best bet. The theatre is literally a two-minute walk from Victoria Station, so you can just hop on the District, Circle, or Victoria lines and you’re practically there.
By Bus: Victoria Bus Station is only about a five-minute walk away. You can catch the 8, 24, 38, or 73 routes straight there.
By Car or Cab: If you’re getting a taxi, they can drop you right outside the main doors. Driving yourself is a bit of a faff, but if you must, the London Victoria Car Park is about a six-minute walk away. Just bear in mind it’ll set you back £22.00 for the day.