The Shaftesbury Theatre is a major West End landmark. It is located at right on Shaftesbury Avenue. The theatre is famous for its grand architecture and gorgeous history. Shaftesbury Theatre seating capacity is around 1,400 seats. The theatre is best known for hosting big, spectacular musicals.
Shaftesbury Theatre History and Design
It was designed by Bertie Crewe, a well-known theatre architect, and opened as the New Prince’s Theatre in 1911. The building is the last theatre to be constructed in Shaftesbury Avenue. It was constructed with classical Portland stone, which features dramatic carvings. There is a clock tower with a copper cupola at the entrance of the theatre. Subjected to several multi-million pound renovations, with a 35-tonne steel fly tower installed to accommodate the heavy stage equipment used today.
Interesting Fact: The renovation of the fly tower in 2016 made it possible for the venue to stage technically difficult shows such as & Juliet and Mrs. Doubtfire.
How to Reach Shaftesbury Theatre
London’s most famous Prince Shaftesbury Theatre is located at right on 210, Shaftesbury Avenue London. The Shaftesbury Theatre is reachable through various modes of commutations including bus, tube, taxis and car.
By Tube: For those wishing to reach the theatre using the tube, The nearest Tube station is Tottenham Court Road. It’s just a 4 minute walk, Central, Elizabeth and Northern lines.
By Bus: Several bus routes stop near the theatre. The nearest bus stops are New Oxford Street, High Holborn, and Charing Cross Road. Bus numbers are 1, 8, 14, 19, 24, 25, 29, 38, 55, 98 and 176.
Shaftesbury Theatre Seating Plan
The Shaftesbury Theatre has a capacity of approximately 1,400 people. Seating is spread across three levels: the Stalls, the Royal Circle, and the Grand Circle.
The Stalls (Ground Level)
Best Seats: Rows D to N.
The Royal Circle (Middle Level)
Best Seats: Rows A to D
The Grand Circle (Top Level)
Best Seats: Rows A to C
Quick Best Seating Plan Guide
Best View Overall: Royal Circle (Rows A–D, Centre)
Best Up-Close Experience: Stalls (Rows D–N, Centre)
Best Budget Option: Grand Circle (Rows A–C, Centre)
| Theatre | Shaftesbury Theatre |
| Show Duration | 2 Hours 15 Minutes |
| Interval | Yes |
| Age Recommendation | 13+ Years |
| Capacity | 1,400 |
| Location | 210 Shaftesbury Ave, London WC2H 8DP |