Sondheim Theatre London
Sondheim Theatre Tickets
What’s On at Sondheim Theatre
The Sondheim has been the home of the legendary Les Miserables musical since 2004 after it transferred to the venue from the Palace Theatre. Theatregoers have watched in awe as this epic story unfolds on stage since 1985, and it is now the longest-running musical in the West End; think of London’s Theatreland and this towering tale of tragedy and revolution will immediately spring to mind. When the Sondheim reopened in 2019, a new production of Les Mis was introduced, with updated staging and more modern direction. Both versions have been huge hits and some 40 years since it first regaled audiences, it is still one of the most popular musicals for theatregoers visiting London.
About the Sondheim Theatre
The Sondheim Theatre originally opened as the Queen's Theatre in 1907 and is situated on the famous Shaftesbury Avenue, where many other major West End houses including the Gielgud Theatre are located. The theatre was designed by architect W. G. R. Sprague and has an Edwardian auditorium, but the façade and lobby were destroyed in WWII by a direct hit from a German bomb. The foyer was then rebuilt in a modern style. Further refurbishment took place in 2009, which improved public spaces and increased seating capacity.
In 2019, the Queen's Theatre was closed for a £13.8 million restoration to improve the facilities and restore some original Edwardian features. The theatre was renamed in honour of prolific composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim on 15 July 2019 and reopened in December of that year.
Map and Address
51 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 6BA
The Sondheim Theatre is one of the many theatres on the famous Shaftesbury Avenue, putting it in a great location for transport links, sightseeing and many other activities. It is on the border of Soho and between Piccadilly Circus and Seven Dials, so there are plenty of bars, restaurants and cafes near the theatre. Oxford Street, Piccadilly and Regent Street all offer excellent shopping opportunities, and there are two large parks about 10 minutes away. As the theatre is in busy Central London, consult www.tfl.gov.uk before you travel, to check for disruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Sondheim Theatre box office open and how do I collect tickets?
The box office is open from 2 hours 30 minutes before the show for in-person bookings and collection, until 15 minutes after curtain up. On matinee days the box office is open between performances. Please bring ID and your confirmation email when picking up tickets.
What time does the Sondheim Theatre open for a show?
The theatre opens 45 minutes before the show starts. Upon arrival you will be directed to a dedicated entrance, suitable for your seat location. The bars and cloakroom should open straight away but they can get crowded so it is recommended that you arrive with plenty of time to purchase refreshments and get comfortable in your seat.
What food and drink are available at the Sondheim Theatre?
The venue features four bars covering all levels of the venue; the Foyer Bar, Stalls Bar, Dress Circle Bar and Grand Circle Bar. Wine, beers, spirits and soft drinks are available as well as snacks such as nuts and crisps, confectionery and ice creams. Before the show, drinks can be pre-ordered for the interval, which is recommended to avoid queues in the limited time between acts.
Does the Sondheim Theatre have a cloakroom?
There are cloakroom facilities at the theatre where small bags and coats can be checked for a small fee. Items left in the cloakroom may be subject to security checks. Large suitcases can't be accepted so it is recommended you take minimal belongings with you to the theatre and ensure your bags are no larger than a handbag or backpack.
Is the Sondheim Theatre air-conditioned?
Yes, the venue has air-conditioning to ensure the auditorium and other public spaces remain at a comfortable temperature all year round.
Where should I eat near the Sondheim Theatre?
Located on Shaftesbury Avenue, the theatre is a very short walk from the bars and restaurants of Soho, Chinatown and Leicester Square, giving you a huge choice of dining options. If you're in a rush, grab a bite from healthy fast-food restaurant Leon, which is across the road from the theatre. Alternatively, London's historic Chinatown is very close, with many restaurants to choose from for a memorable pre-theatre dinner.
What is the best hotel to stay at near the Sondheim Theatre?
The Premier Inn Leicester Square is just a five-minute walk away from the theatre and offers a range of affordable rooms in the heart of London's West End. If you're looking to make your trip extra-special, spend the night at the five-star Hotel Café Royal, which is a five-minute walk from the theatre and offers state-of-the-art wellbeing facilities as well as truly luxurious rooms.
How do I contact the box office?
The theatre does not currently have a dedicated box office phone number. Patrons can contact the box office by using the contact form on https://www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk/contact-us.
