Sam Wanamaker Playhouse London
Sam Wanamaker Playhouse Tickets
What’s On at Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
Over a decade since it opened as an indoor sister for the Globe, the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse events schedule perfectly illustrates why this atmospheric candlelit venue is truly one of a kind. In recent years, it has programmed a compelling mixture of Shakespeare plays, family shows, and 20th-century European drama. This year, the Sam Wanamaker also hosts the UK premiere of the late Chadwick Boseman's play Deep Azure and family-friendly show A World Elsewhere - perfect for the school holidays.
For anyone leaving the busy South Bank and stepping inside this riverside theatre, its period dressings hide - and enhance - an experimental, dynamic space. Whether you're a tourist, theatre fan or student on a budget, head here for a unique and memorable experience.
About the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse London opened in January 2014 as a faithful replica of 17th century candlelit theatres. It is located on the same site as the Globe Theatre, and usually hosts performances during the colder months.
Shakespeare's Globe Founder Sam Wanamaker always envisioned an indoor theatre to complement the open-air Globe, and the Playhouse's red brick shell was already in place when the Globe Theatre opened in 1997. It was used as a workshop and rehearsal space for many years before work to convert it into an active venue began in 2012. The Globe’s Architecture Research Group and architects Allies & Morrison consulted sketches of real Jacobean playhouses to create an accurate performance space. There are also tours available to book.
The playhouse is an intimate venue with a green oak frame. It is lit by over 100 beeswax candles and has authentic design features including wood carvings and benched seating. Look up as you enter: the beautiful painted ceiling depicts the moon goddess Luna amongst clouds, created by a team led by artist Zaza Opperman.
The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse opened with a revival of the Jacobean tragedy The Duchess of Malfi. It has hosted several acclaimed productions including Farinelli and the King starring Mark Rylance.
Should I get there early?
As well as taking a walk along the beautiful bankside, if you arrive early at the Globe, you can sample their cafe, bars and restaurants, as well as the Globe shop, which has plenty of playtexts, collectables and merchandise available to purchase. There are often talks and events relating to the current season's productions, which can be held either pre- or post-show.
Map and Address
21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London, SE1 9DT
Rail: Blackfriars Station is about 10 minutes away from the Playhouse. London Bridge is a 15-minute walk, or Waterloo is a 25-minute walk along the river.
Tube: London Bridge station is on the Jubilee and Northern lines, around 15 minutes walk away. St Paul's station, on the Central line, is around 15 minutes walk away across the Millennium Bridge.
Bus: Local routes include 45, 63, and 100 to Blackfriars Bridge, 11, 15, 17, and 26 to Mansion House, or the 76 to St Paul’s Cathedral.
Car: There are limited Blue Badge spaces on New Globe Walk and other nearby streets. Bankside is pedestrianised, but drop-offs are possible on New Globe Walk or Park Street.
Nearby Attractions
The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse forms part of the Shakespeare’s Globe complex at Bankside on the south side of the River Thames.
The Tate Modern sits at the foot of the Millennium Bridge, around 5 minutes' walk from the Globe and is host to a free-to-visit permanent collection and a varied programme of temporary exhibitions, including the famous Turbine Hall.
To the east of the theatre is Southwark, where attractions include the Cathedral (around a 10-minute walk) and Borough Market (around 8 minutes' walk). St Paul’s Cathedral is across the Thames, around a 15-minute walk across the Millennium Bridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse box office open and how do I collect tickets?
The box office is open for general and ticketing enquiries between 11am - 6pm on Monday - Friday, 10am - 6pm on Saturdays, and 11am - 5pm on Sundays. Tickets can be collected on the day of the performance, or are sent electronically to the email address you booked with, up to one day before.
What time does the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse London open for a show?
The theatre is part of Shakespeare’s Globe, which opens daily from 10am. Try to arrive at the theatre at least 30 minutes before the start of your performance to get through security checks and reach your seats.
What food and drink are available at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse?
There is a bar on the upper level of the venue, and theatregoers can take drinks into the auditorium. The Swan bar and restaurant is also located on-site, with seasonal menus for pre-theatre dining and refreshments.
Is there a dress code at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse?
There is no dress code for visitors to the indoor playhouse. If you have a standing ticket, it is best to wear comfortable shoes - you will be on your feet for at least an hour at a time.
Does the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse have a cloakroom?
The cloakroom is currently closed. Visitors can take bags up to 40cm x 35cm x 19cm into the building. There are also exceptions for larger bags containing medical or childcare equipment.
There are many local luggage storage facilities for larger bags such as Stasher and Luggage Hero. Locations and pre-booking are available online.
Is the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse air-conditioned?
There is air-conditioning at the theatre, to prevent the small auditorium from becoming too warm.
Where should I eat near the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse?
Borough Market is a short walk away and has a wide range of sit-down and street food dining including Middle Eastern mezze outlet Arabica and Italian spot La Tua Pasta. There are also plenty of popular chain restaurants along Bankside including Wagamama and Pizza Express.
What is the best hotel to stay at near the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse?
If you are visiting the theatre on a budget, Ibis Southwark is great for simple, comfortable rooms within walking distance of the theatre. For more of a treat, The Hoxton in Southwark boasts a modern, creative design with an on-site all-day bar and restaurant.
How do I contact the box office?
The box office can be contacted by phone on +44 (0)20 7401 9919 or by email at tickets@shakespearesglobe.com.
Is the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse the same as Shakespeare’s Globe?
The venues are two different theatres located on the same site in Bankside, London. Both theatres are owned by the same company. Unlike Shakespeare’s Globe which is an open-air outdoor theatre, the Playhouse is an indoor venue. It is lit by candlelight and based on the 16th-century Blackfriars Theatre.
Shakespeare's Globe usually operates during the summer and the Sam Wanamaker during winter, but they sometimes share seasons.
