Royal Alexandra Theatre
Orchestra

Orchestra Guide

The Orchestra is the largest section in the Royal Alexandra Theatre and is closest to the stage. Seating is divided into three large blocks, with one central block and two side blocks split by two vertical aisles that run the length of the auditorium. Rows span AA-S and are widest in the centre, reaching seat numbers 1-36.

Due to the intimacy of the section views are good from most seats, even at the ends of rows where there are no restrictions. Two small horizontal aisles divide rows AA-DD and Row B, providing easy access to Row A and allowing extra legroom in seats 7-10 and 27-30 of Row B. The Orchestra benefits from a steep rake, which limits obstruction.

The Balcony overhang begins at around Row G, but does not significantly hinder the view until the rear rows, where it may temporarily obscure the top of the stage. The 2016 refurbishment incorporated comfortable seats with good legroom, designed to provide good sight-lines throughout.

Premium seats are in the front-centre. There are two Boxes either side of the front of the auditorium. Boxes A, B, C and D all offer incredibly close-up views of the stage.

Orchestra Front Left

Rows in the front-left of the Orchestra curve very slightly to face the stage, however they are the width of the proscenium, which allows for central views no matter where you are sat. Two small horizontal aisles divide Row DD and Row B, allowing easy access to Row A and extra legroom in Row B. Seat numbers are higher toward the left of the auditorium. This area is premium priced, as there are excellent views from the seats due to the close and central positioning. Boxes A and B are on this side, with Box B positioned behind Box A. These are free-standing seats that offer incredibly close, if slightly side-on, views of the stage.

Orchestra Front Right

Rows in the front-right of the Orchestra are minimally curved to face the stage, and are the width of the proscenium, which allows for a central view no matter where you are sat. Two small horizontal aisles split Row DD and Row B, allowing easier access to Row A and extra legroom in Row B. Seat numbers are lower toward the right of the auditorium. This area is premium priced, as there are excellent views due to seats being positioned very close and centrally to the stage. Boxes C and D are on this side, with Box D positioned behind Box C. These are free-standing seats that offer incredibly close, if slightly side-on, views of the stage.

Orchestra Centre

The centre of the Orchestra is one of the best places to sit in the entire theatre. Roughly spanning rows A-F, these are premium priced seats that come with a premium view of the stage. Offering head-on, close-up views of the action, the seats in this area are a great option, as the Balcony overhang does not kick in until around Row G. Seats in these rows are designed to be comfortable with good legroom, and a decent rake allows for clear views of the stage.

Orchestra Rear Left

The rear-left of the Orchestra feels slightly distant from the stage, but still provides good views of the action. With rows slightly curving to face the stage, there are no immediate restrictions. A good rake allows patrons to see past those in front, even at the ends of the rows. The Balcony overhang kicks in at around Row G and begins to affect the view at Row N, where the top of the stage can be momentarily cut off. Due to this, some good price seats can be found in this section.

Orchestra Rear Right

The rear-right of the Orchestra feels slightly distant from the stage but continues to provide good views of the action. With rows curving slightly, there are no immediate restrictions. A decent rake allows patrons to see past those in front, even at the ends of the rows. The Balcony overhang kicks in at around Row G and begins to affect the view at Row N, where the top of the stage can occasionally be cut off. Due to this, some good price seats can be found in this section.

SeatPlan’s Best Views of the Stage

Sit in Rows AA-DD of the Orchestra for the most immersive, close-up experience. Rows A-E also offer exceptional views of the stage, complete with premium price tags, and sitting centrally allows for panoramic views that are great for large-scale musicals.

Best Legroom Seats

Good legroom seats are in Row B of the Orchestra, where a small horizontal aisle allows seats 7-10 and 27-30 to have extra space. Sitting in aisle seats also offers extra legroom.

Tips

• Seats behind Row N may be partially affected by the Balcony overhang
• Row B offers extra legroom
• Boxes A and B are free-standing seats, which can allow for extra comfort
• Seats at the ends of rows E-K are close to the exits

Pricing

Seats in the Orchestra are top price, with premium price seats in the centre of rows AA-G. Surrounding seats, including seats at the ends of rows, are lower priced but still sit in the top price ticket bracket. It is better to sit as centrally as possible for the same price as sitting further back in the Orchestra. The cheapest tickets in this section are at the rear of the auditorium in rows Q-S, although pricing often depends on the show booking.

Bars

A bar and refreshment counter is available in the Orchestra Lobby, which is step-free from the entrance and from the Orchestra.

The Yale Simpson Lounge can be found on the lower level, which can be accessed via 20 steps down. All steps are highlighted, with handrails in place.

Toilets

Women’s and Men’s washrooms can be found on this level.

One accessible washroom can be found step-free on the Orchestra level, with two additional suites above the Orchestra via 15 steps, or below the Orchestra via 20 steps. All steps are highlighted, with handrails in place.