The Lyceum Theatre’s opened in 1765, however there has always been a theatre in London’s Covent Garden called the Lyceum, but not as we know it today. Although It has taken many different forms throughout the years it has, and continues to be, one of the UK’s most prominent and important theatres.
In 1904, the theatre was re-built by Bertie Crewe, playing host to a range of melodramas until the Lyceum was bought by London City Council in 1939. They had plans to demolish the building along with the Aldwych, Novello, Vaudeville and Adelphi theatres to make way for road improvements and in 1939 the theatre closed with a landmark performance of Hamlet starring Sir John Gielgud in the title role.
Luckily, the Lyceum Theatre’s history didn’t end there and after the war, the theatre re-opened as the ‘Lyceum Ballroom’ and welcomed many big bands and stars including The Who, Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Queen and Prince, who played his first UK gig here in 1981.
The Lyceum Theatre was Grade II listed in 1978 to prevent any further demolition plans and from 1996, it was given a new lease of life by the Apollo Leisure Group with a £15 million refurbishment. Since that time, the theatre has played host to some fantastic shows including Jesus Christ Superstar and Oklahoma! and is currently home to Disney’s The Lion King.
Bar
Named after the Lyceum’s conversion to a successful Ballroom in 1945, The Ballroom bar is open exclusively for show ticket holders an hour and a half prior to the show commencing. There are additional bars on each level of the venue.
Accessibility
The Lyceum Theatre is committed to providing access for all. We aim to achieve this by providing great facilities for access customers and ensuring our staff are on hand to make your visit as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. See Accessibility information to learn more.
Operated by ATG Entertainment the Lyceum promises a classic theatre experience that you’ll never forget with a seating capacity of 2,100, which is why it hosts one of the biggest and most popular musicals in the West End!
Details
- Address:
- The Lyceum Theatre
- WC2E 7RQ
- Contact:
- https://www.thelyceumtheatre.com/
- Transport:
- Nearest Tube: Covent Garden on the Piccadilly line