Wyndham's Theatre first opened its doors on November 16, 1899, commissioned by the visionary actor-manager Charles Wyndham. With an opening production that featured a revival of T.W. Robertson's "David Garrick," Wyndham's quickly established itself as a premier destination for top-tier theatrical performances. Charles Wyndham himself, alongside his future wife Mary Moore, graced the stage, setting a high bar for the quality of performances that would follow.
The theatre, designed with all the grandeur and ornate detail befitting its era, has played host to a remarkable array of productions and talent over the years. Its first long-running hit came with Sandy Wilson's "The Boyfriend," which opened in January 1959 and charmed audiences for over 2,000 performances. This was followed by the successful run of Stephen Schwartz's "Godspell" in 1972, a production that captured the spirit of its time and ran for three years.
Wyndham's has seen many illustrious actors tread its boards, including Alec Guinness, Vanessa Redgrave, Diana Rigg, and even Madonna, further cementing its status as a stage for the stars. In May 2005, the theatre entered a new chapter when it was acquired by Sir Cameron Mackintosh's Delfont Mackintosh Theatres. A significant renovation in 2008 ensured that the theatre's historic charm was preserved while upgrading its facilities for modern audiences.
With a seating arrangement spread across four levels—Stalls, Royal Circle, Grand Circle, and Balcony—Wyndham's offers a range of viewing experiences, from the intimate proximity of the Stalls to the panoramic views from the Balcony. Despite the high elevation, even the furthest seats provide an unobstructed view of the stage, ensuring every performance is enjoyed to the fullest.
In its more than a century-long history, Wyndham's Theatre has remained a cornerstone of West End theatre, blending historical elegance with contemporary innovation. Whether hosting long-running musicals, star-studded dramas, or limited engagement plays, Wyndham's continues to be a beacon of theatrical excellence, drawing audiences from around the globe to its storied stage.
Details
- Address:
- Charing Cross Road
- WC2H 0DA
- Transport:
- Railway station: Charing Cross & Leicester Square Bus numbers: (Charing Cross Road) 24, 29, 176; (Shaftesbury Avenue) 14, 19, 38