Fortune Theatre London
Fortune Theatre Tickets
What’s On at Fortune Theatre
The Fortune Theatre was for decades known as the home of the chilling ghost story The Woman in Black, but in 2023 that all changed as it welcomed the Operation Mincemeat musical’s West End premiere. Visitors to one of Theatreland's smallest venues no longer steel themselves for jumpscares but for laughs! This quirky homegrown British show, based on the unbelievable true story of a secret World War Two operation, has proven to be a sensation and earned 67 five-star reviews. Originally a cult favourite amongst musical theatre enthusiasts, it is now the definition of a crowd-pleaser that will win over anyone with its witty songs and charming performances.
About the Fortune Theatre
The Fortune Theatre was the first theatre to be built in London after World War I, and is situated close to the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. It was constructed on the site of an old public tavern, sharing a corridor with the neighbouring Scottish National Church and was designed by Ernest Schaufelberg. Today it is a Grade II-listed building, and the oldest remaining public building in London to be built entirely out of concrete. The theatre is owned and operated by the Ambassador Theatre Group.
With a capacity of only 432, The Fortune Theatre is one of the smallest in the West End - second only to the 350-seat Arts Theatre. For much of the 20th Century it operated as a 'receiving house', meaning it exclusively hosted touring shows rather than its own resident productions.
This theatre was the home of spooky thriller The Woman in Black from 1989 to March 2023. Upon closing, it was the West End’s second longest-running play after The Mousetrap at St. Martin's Theatre. A film adaptation starring Daniel Radcliffe in 2012 enticed a new set of theatregoers to the Fortune. Fittingly, considering its most famous play, the Fortune is reported to be haunted, with actors commenting on ghostly encounters experienced at the venue. Stars who have trodden the boards at the Fortune include Dame Judi Dench and Alan Bennet.
Map and Address
Russell Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2B 5HH
Rail: Charing Cross station is around a 20-minute walk away from the Fortune along The Strand.
Tube: Covent Garden tube, on the Piccadilly line, is around a 5-minute walk away through the Covent Garden piazza. Leicester Square tube is a 10-15-minute walk away via Long Acre. Holborn, served by the Central and Piccadilly lines, is a similar distance.
Bus: The closest bus stops to the Fortune Theatre are on Aldwych. Routes 1, 4, 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 26, 59, 68, 76, 87, 91, 168, 171, 172, 188, 243, and 341 all stop along Aldwych.
Car: Q Park Covent Garden is around a 10-minute walk away, and Leicester Square is around a 15-minute walk away. NCP Covent Garden is around a 5-minute walk away. Blue Badge parking is available in these car parks and on some local streets. Drop-offs are possible in front of the theatre.
Nearby Attractions
The Fortune Theatre is a small venue, tucked opposite the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, just off Covent Garden’s famous piazza. Covent Garden is a vibrant area, with plenty of restaurants and pubs, and full of history and culture.
The iconic Royal Opera House backs onto nearby Bow Street, with its cafe and restaurant open to the public during the day.
Around a 10-minute walk to Lincoln’s Inn Fields is Sir John Soane’s Museum, home to the eclectic collections of architect Sir John Soane. As well as the permanent collection, the museum also hosts a rolling programme of events and temporary exhibitions.
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Fortune Theatre box office open and how do I collect tickets?
The box office at the theatre is open from 10am to 8.15pm on Mondays to Saturday, during which time you can collect pre-bought tickets or make purchases for future performances.
What time does the Fortune Theatre open for a show?
The theatre opens around 60 minutes before the show starts.
What food and drink are available at the Fortune Theatre?
The theatre is located in Covent Garden, where there are many cafes, restaurants and pubs to grab a bite to eat. Clos Maggiore is a popular choice with patrons looking for a special pre-theatre dinner and is just a five-minute walk from the theatre. For a quick bite, try plant-based eaterie By Chloe which is next door to the theatre
Does the Fortune Theatre have a cloakroom?
The theatre has limited cloakroom facilities, but coats and small items can be checked in for a performance at a cost of £1 per item. Large bags and rucksacks may be refused.
Is the Fortune Theatre air-conditioned?
Air-conditioning is installed within the Fortune Theatre, allowing patrons to keep cool even on hot days.
Where should I eat near the Fortune Theatre?
The theatre is close to both Covent Garden and the Strand, making it an ideal place to get a pre-theatre meal. Popular chains such as Bill’s, Cote and Zizzi's are all nearby for those wanting to return to an old favorite, while The Delaunay is one of London’s top European-style cafes for those wanting high class service and are not fussy about price. For any vegans however, By Chloe is the trendy choice.
What is the best hotel to stay at near the Fortune Theatre?
The nearby Fielding Hotel is well connected to London's wide array of landmarks. The four-star hotel is located just a five-minute walk from the theatre. For a budget option, the surrounding Z-Hotels all offer comfort and pleasant stays, without the big price tag.
How do I contact the box office?
The box office can be contacted directly on 0844 871 7626, where calls are charged at standard geographic rates.