Sam Wanamaker Playhouse London
What's On at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
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.
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.
Plan Your Visit
There are many luggage storage facilities local to the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse for larger bags such as Stasher and Luggage Hero. Locations and pre-booking are available online.
Shakespeare's Globe usually operates during the summer and the Sam Wanamaker during winter, but they sometimes share seasons.
Help Booking Tickets
Shakespeare’s Globe has many other spaces including the Underglobe and the Balcony Room, which can be booked for meetings, receptions and other private events. For more details and prices, please contact us by phone on 020 7928 9444 or email enquiries@swanlondon.co.uk.