The Harold Pinter Theatre was designed by Thomas Verity and first opened in 1881 as the Royal Comedy Theatre, staging many comic operas and light comedies. From 1884 it was known simply as the Comedy Theatre up until 2011 when it was re-named in honour of influential 20th Century British playwright, Harold Pinter. It was Grade II listed by English Heritage in 1972.
During the 20th Century, the Comedy Theatre hosted many important works such as Arthur Miller's A View From the Bridge and Tennessee Williams' Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Recent notable productions include Alan Ayckbourn's A Chorus of Disapproval starring Rob Brydon and Ashley Jensen, Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? starring Imelda Staunton and Chekhov's Uncle Vanya starring Toby Jones and Richard Armitage. In 2018-19 the theatre hosted its Pinter at the Pinter season, with many legendary actors appearing in an extensive series of Pinter plays. Now, it is home to the five-star Royal Court Theatre hit, GIANT starring John Lithgow, who puts in a brilliant performance as Roald Dahl in this critically acclaimed play exploring the author's antisemitism scandals. This is followed by Robert Bolt’s classic A Man For All Seasons starring Martin Shaw who plays Sir Thomas More, a man forced to choose between his loyalty and his own conscience, committing an incredible act of defiance for which he eventually pays the ultimate price...
Seating
The best seats can be found in the Stalls, in the centre rows, just before the Dress Circle begins to overhang. The second row of the Dress Circle is also an excellent choice for those looking for premium views.
Facilities
Bars are located on all levels, providing alcoholic, soft drinks and snacks There is a cloakroom and the venue has air conditioning. Male and female restrooms are located in the Stalls, Royal Circle and Balcony. An accessible toilet is located in the foyer.
Access
The theatre offers a range of accessibility services for D/deaf and disabled customers, with friendly Access Champions available to answer any questions. AccessAble have also visited the theatre in-person to create a Detailed Access Guide. Join the free Access Membership Scheme to book accessible seats.
Details
- Address:
- 6 Panton Street
- SW1Y 4DN
- Transport:
- Railway station: Charing Cross Bus numbers: (Haymarket) 3, 6, 12, 13, 19, 23, 38, 88, 139; (Piccadilly Circus) 14, 22, 94