The Lyric Hammersmith has a capacity of 582 seats, including 325 seats in the Stalls, 121 seats in the Circle and 136 seats in the Upper Circle. Use our interactive seating plan to view 270 seat reviews and 157 photos of views from seat.
The Lyric Hammersmith first opened in 1895, designed by prolific theatre architect Frank Matcham as an intimate opera house. Originally built on another site, the Lyric Theatre threatened with demolition in 1966 to make way for a new shopping complex. After public outcry, it was decided that the theatre would be dismantled and rebuilt on its current site, along with a new contemporary black-box studio. In 1979 the new venue was opened by the Queen. In 2004, the theatre underwent major renovations at the hands of architect Rick Mather, creating a new ticket booth, café and rehearsal spaces. The Lyric Hammersmith has since been expanded in 2012 and 2015, with new rooms added, including the multi-facilitated Reuben Foundation Wing.
One of the UK’s leading producing theatres, the Lyric Hammersmith welcomes audiences in their thousands throughout the year. Hosting work by playwrights such as Harold Pinter, John Gielgud and Simon Stephens, the theatre is best-known for creating smash-hit productions that regularly transfer to the West End. Notable productions include Bugsy Malone, Shopping and F***ing, Ghost Stories and the Olivier Award-winning Blasted. With a seating capacity of above 550 in the main space, the main theatre is split across three levels; the Stalls, Circle and Upper Circle. Despite several renovations, the Lyric is a relatively traditional auditorium that reflects those in London’s West End. A variety of views and levels of comfort can be found throughout the theatre.
Sit anywhere in the theatre for a great overall view of the stage. Due to the intimacy and rake of the auditorium, cheap seats can be found towards the rear of the section, which still offer a great overall view of the stage. Sitting in the back row of the Circle can prove to be good value for money, whilst those looking to purchase tickets on a strict budget should choose the Upper Circle.
Premium seats are located primarily in the Stalls, particularly in the centre of the auditorium. Alternatively, sitting in the front of the Circle is a great option for large-scale musicals, as it gives you a panoramic view of the entire stage. Sitting in the Stalls guarantees a great overall view of the stage, due to the decent rake and proximity to the stage.
Though I was sat in Row D, when I visited this was actually the second row from the front. The stage at the Lyric Hammersmith is high so I had to crane my neck quite a bit to watch the show (as can probably be seen from the photo). I'm 5 foot 2 so someone... More
Saw Cinderella Cinderella on 03 January 2020
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This seat is right in the middle of the front row so you have an excellent view of the stage. There is plenty of room for you to stretch your legs out in front of you and the seat is comfortable. A great value seat and as the stage isn't too high, you... More
Saw Faustus: That Damned Woman Faustus: That Damned Woman on 21 February 2020
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Really good view considering you're only a few rows for the back. Comfort and legroom are ok. Rake of the seats is minimal so you might get the heads on those in-front blocking your view from time to time. More
Saw Faustus: That Damned Woman Faustus: That Damned Woman on 05 February 2020
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