St. Martin’s Theatre has welcomed over 15 million audience members through its doors since opening in 1916 with its first production, the spectacular Edwardian musical comedy Houp La! This Grade II listed building, designed by W.G.R. Sprague, has been home to Agatha Christie’s record-breaking masterpiece The Mousetrap since 1974.
The St Martin's Theatre was built as a pair with the Ambassadors Theatre. Tucked away in the Seven Dials area of the West End, the intimate venue was designed by renowned theatre architect W. G. R. Sprague in an English Georgian style. English Heritage gave the theatre a Grade II listing in 1973. The first production at the theatre was the world premiere of Edwardian musical comedy Houp La! starring Gertie Miller, one of the West End's most prominent performers in the early 20th century. Many famous British actors have passed through the St. Martin's. In April 1923 Basil Rathbone played Harry Domain in R.U.R. and in June 1927 Henry Daniell appeared there as Gregory Brown in Meet the Wife. Successes at the theatre included Hugh Williams's play (later a film) The Grass is Greener, John Mortimer's The Wrong Side of the Park, and in 1970, the thriller Sleuth.
However St Martin's Theatre is best known for being the home of Queen of Crime Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap, which holds the record for being the longest-running play in the world. Over 70 years since it premiered, theatregoers are still faithfully keeping the ending of this classic whodunnit a secret, so every new audience is surprised by the story’s unexpected twists and turns. Many musicals and plays have come and gone, but this stalwart of the West End promises a unique slice of theatre history that you cannot find anywhere else.
Seating
The auditorium is smaller than most West End venues so views of the stage are particularly good from most areas. The best seats are located towards the front of the Dress Circle. For good value seats sit in the Upper Circle for some great views at a discounted prices and unobstructed views.
Facilities
There is a bar on every level serving snacks and a wide range of beers, wines, spirits, soft drinks, and bespoke cocktails. There is no cloakroom or lifts at this theatre.
Access
There is an adapted toilet located on the Dress Circle level. Wheelchair access is via a removable ramp through the main entrance — staff will be available to assist. There are two wheelchair spaces, one in Box C and one in the Dress Circle. Guide dogs and hearing dogs are permitted. Every performance is now audio described and patrons with specific access or seating requirements should contact the Box Office.
Details
- Address:
- St. Martin’s Theatre
- WC2H 9NG
- Transport:
- Railway station: Charing Cross: Tube: Leicester Square Bus numbers: (Shaftesbury Avenue) 14, 19, 38; (Charing Cross Road) 14, 19, 38, 24, 29, 176