Lyceum Theatre - London
Lyceum Theatre is one of the oldest West End Theatres. It was also one of the largest theatres of its time, with a seating capacity of 2100. Even today, very few West End Theatres can boast of such a huge auditorium. Located on Wellington Street, in the City of Westminster, the Theatre has served many purposes since it was built...
Read along to know more about this rich history of the Lyceum Theatre, London and be prepared to book yourself some tickets.
Architecture
With a seating capacity of 2100, the Theatre had to be rebuilt in 1834 after a fire in the location. Samuel Beazley rebuilt it. The building has a unique and gorgeous infrastructure with an overhanging balcony over the dress circle.
The Versatility of the Lyceum Theatre
The Theatre has had a rich history of hosting productions. Initially, it was used to host various entertainment shows from 1794 to 1809, including a circus by Philip Astley and a famous Madame Tussauds exhibition. Later it served as the English Opera House until 1834.
It has played many popular productions, including adaptations of Charles Dickens' many stories, plays, novels, and works by Shakespeare. The Shakespearean Era of the Theatre was a time of glory for the venue, for many officials, diplomats, and royals frequently visited here to witness Shakespeare's genius come alive.
When the Theatre was decided to be shut down and demolished, it was again saved. In 1996, the Holohan Architects rebuilt the Theatre for traditional use. It then served the purpose of a Mecca Ballroom.
Productions
John Barnett produced several pieces in the Theatre's early years, notably The Mountain Sylph (1834). Fair Rosamund (1837), Farinelli in 1839, and Blanche of Jersey in 1840. Composer Michael William Balfe oversaw the Theatre and staged National Opera from 1841 to 1843.
In the latter part of the 1900s, the Theatre also saw some of the greatest pop artists perform on its stage. People and brands Like Bob Marley, Led Zeppelin, Queen, the Ramones, The Police have all performed some of their most superhit numbers here.
The Lyceum Theatre is incredibly accommodating to those who are physically challenged as well. Every performance at the Theatre is equipped with infrared assisted listening devices. In addition, hand-held audio description and captioning devices and unrestricted access to downloading audio descriptions or captioning for personal mobile devices are all accessible free of charge four weeks after a show's official opening night.
Combine the excellent shows of this place with its unique history, and you've got yourself a place that's on every theatre lover's map. Seats sell out fast, and you need to get yours right now if you hope to catch any shows here. So hit that Book Now button ASAP!
