Originally christened the Hicks Theatre after the actor-manager Seymour Hicks, it quickly became a theatrical hotspot known for its spirited productions and the occasional surprise performance by a husband filling in for his ailing wife. Renamed the Globe Theatre in 1909 by the American impresario Charles Frohman, it took the name Gielgud in 1994 to avoid confusion with Shakespeare’s famous venue on the South Bank. This transformation paid homage to the legendary British actor John Gielgud, underscoring the theatre's rich heritage.
Designed in the opulent Louis XVI style by W.G.R. Sprague, the Gielgud Theatre boasts an elegant three-level auditorium that has seen everything from Noel Coward comedies to daring contemporary productions. Over its illustrious history, it has hosted a parade of celebrated shows, including the National Theatre’s mesmerizing rendition of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and the stirring drama The Ferryman by Jez Butterworth.
Under the ownership of Delfont Mackintosh Theatres, the Gielgud Theatre remains a cornerstone of London’s cultural scene, blending historical charm with modern theatrical innovation. Its recent successes, like the gender-bending revival of Stephen Sondheim’s Company, have cemented its reputation as a venue that marries tradition with cutting-edge creativity.And now audiences at the Gielgud Theatre can consider themselves part of the family in 2025, because Oliver the Musical is back and is home to the open-ended run of the classic Lionel Bart show.
Located amidst the vibrant energy of the West End, the Gielgud Theatre continues to enchant audiences with its grand Regency staircase, intimate oval gallery, and a rich tapestry of performances that span genres and eras. As it evolves with each passing season, the Gielgud Theatre remains a beacon of theatrical excellence, inviting theatregoers to indulge in the magic of live performance in the heart of London’s theatre district.
Seating
The best seats are located towards the mid-rear of the Stalls, just underneath the Dress Circle overhang. Sit in rows N-P for the best overall views or upgrade your experience by booking one of the Gielgud Theatre box seats to watch the show with added privacy. For good value seats sit in the Grand Circle for a bargain!
Facilities
There is a cloakroom that accepts coats and small bags for a small charge. There are 5 licensed bars, including the Sprague Terrace, all serving a range of beers, wines, spirits, champagne and soft drinks as well as snacks, and ice creams. No hot food is permitted inside the theatre and Interval drinks can be pre-ordered at the nearest bar to your seat which is highly recommended if you want to beat the queue during the interval.
Access
It is important that everyone’s visit to the Gielgud Theatre should be as accessible as possible to allow audiences of all abilities to enjoy the variety of entertainment on offer every night. Information on Hearing Enhancement Aids, Assistance Dogs, Autism and Social Stories and details of currently available Access Performances, please refer to the main Accessibility page HERE or call the Dedicated Booking Line on 0344 482 5137.
The Gielgud Theatre is currently home to OLIVER! until 29 March 2026
Details
- Address:
- Winnett Street
- W1V 8AR
- Transport:
- Railway station: Charing Cross Bus numbers: (Shaftesbury Avenue) 12, 14, 19, 38; (Regent Street) 6, 13, 15, 23, 88, 94, 139, 159, 453