The Gillian Lynne Theatre was built in 1972 under the supervision of Bernard Delfont. Historically, there have been other theatre buildings occupying this site including the famous Winter Garden Theatre, which presented stars such as Fred Astaire and Alec Guinness. Situated in Central London, the theatre is close to Holborn and Covent Garden. The most modern theatre in the West End, it can seat 1,024 people across an expansive, semi-circular auditorium split across two levels. Good views are available across the theatre due to the modern layout.
Stalls
The Stalls are the largest section in the theatre, and are laid out in a gently curving semi-circle around the subtle thrust stage. There is a steep rake throughout the seating which ensures good views, even towards the rear of the auditorium. Seats are split into three main sections by two wide aisles, with the middle section offering the best views and the side sections facing the stage at an angle. There is one large horizontal aisle that goes halfway through the seating. Legroom in this section is particularly good, and all of the seats are plush and comfortable.
Circle
The Circle is the section above the Stalls, and seats fewer people. Seats do not feel far from the stage here and also curve in a semi-circle around the stage. Views are still excellent in this section, and generally cost less than those in the Stalls. Due to the contemporary build of the theatre, legroom is relatively good even towards the back rows. The Circle is also divided into three main sections by two aisles, and is easy to get to via a lift and stairs.
FAQs
Where are the best seats for children at the Gillian Lynne Theatre?
Seats within the Stalls are steeply raked, offering a good view of the stage. It is best to avoid the Circle, which may have restricted views for those of a smaller height and can frustrate children. Views are excellent across the Stalls, ensuring that the stage will not be blocked from any angle.
Where are the Restricted View seats?
Restricted view seats are typically found in the Circle and at the ends of rows in both the Circle and Stalls. These seats give a side view of the stage, although due to the thrust, these restrictions are not too severe.
What if I am hard of sight or hearing?
The Gillian Lynne Theatre is fitted with an Infra-red system, with headsets and neck-loops available in the Box Office and foyer. These are usually available on a first-come first-served basis. Assistance dogs are welcome in the auditorium, or staff can look after up to 4 dogs at a time. For signed, captioned and audio described events or to discuss your access requirements, please contact the access team on 020 7087 7966 or access@seetickets.com.
Are there steps in the theatre?
The theatre foyer is step-free from the street, with an escalator that leads down to the Stalls seating and steps that lead up to the Circle. A lift is available for those that need assistance, which means that the entire venue is step-free. Once inside the auditorium, there are steps to reach all seats other than the wheelchair user spaces in S17 and S18.
Where are the toilets located?
There are toilets on all levels of the theatre, including accessible toilets en route to the lift from the auditorium.
Where are the bars located?
A bar is available via the escalator or the lift. Alternatively, the bar can be reach via 54 steps from the entrance foyer. There is movable seating and drinks can be taken to access customers within the auditorium.
Are there wheelchair facilities in the Gillian Lynne Theatre?
There are 2 wheelchair spaces in the Stalls, in S17 and S18. These can be accessed step-free via a lift in the main foyer entrance.
The Gillian Lynne Theatre was built in 1972 under the supervision of Bernard Delfont. Historically, there have been other theatre buildings occupying this site including the famous Winter Garden Theatre, which presented stars such as Fred Astaire and Alec Guinness. Situated in Central London, the theatre is close to Holborn and Covent Garden. The most modern theatre in the West End, it can seat 1,024 people across an expansive, semi-circular auditorium split across two levels. Good views are available across the theatre due to the modern layout.