The National Theatre - Olivier has a capacity of 1127 seats, including 609 seats in the Stalls and 518 seats in the Circle. Use our interactive seating plan to view 1145 seat reviews and 674 photos of views from seat.
The Olivier Theatre is the largest auditorium at the National Theatre. Built in an amphitheatre style, the auditorium is a large semi-circle that surrounds the circular stage, which changes shape per performance. The theatre was based on the Ancient Greek theatre at Epidaurus, which had an open stage and fan-shaped auditorium.
Seating is split across two levels, with the best views and more expensive seating in the middle of the Stalls. Clear views are available from almost every seat, with a variety of angles available due to the shape of the seating.
The National Theatre offers an excellent Entry Pass scheme for under 25's, allowing tickets to be bought at £5. Seats bought on this scheme are usually located towards the front and offer sensational views of the stage. Alternatively, sit in the rear or at the far sides of the Stalls for a completely unobstructed view of the stage, which may only be at a slight angle.
The best seats in the theatre are located in the centre of the Stalls, facing the stage head-on. Sit towards the front of the Stalls to feel entirely immersed in the action, or towards the rear for a more panoramic view of the large stage. Seats are similarly priced due to great views throughout.
I could see the stage amazingly from where I was sitting. I loved the fact that It was a bit of a side view but because of the fact the stage is round it was incredible. I was a bit uncomfortable as I felt a bit compact with some of the other audienc... More
Saw Follies Follies on 18 February 2019
The most comfortable and spacious auditorium seats in the West End are still at the National in the Olivier auditorium. The only drawback is the distance from the stage for what is a smaller, more intimate production.... More
Saw Hadestown Hadestown on 15 December 2018
This seat is located on the far left of the auditorium, five rows back (3 rows back in the production that I saw as the front two rows were removed). Whilst this seat offers somewhat of a side view, the Olivier stage is without proscenium so is open ... More
Saw Hadestown Hadestown on 29 November 2018
