Venue Information
The Sondheim Theatre (formerly the Queen's Theatre) first opened in October 1907, designed by W. G. R. Sprague as a twin to the neighbouring Gielgud Theatre. This elegant Edwardian playhouse originally featured plush interiors, ornate balconies and a soaring auditorium. The theatre suffered severe damage in September 1940 when a WWII bomb destroyed its facade and foyer, luckily leaving the auditorium intact. It remained closed throughout the war and was restored in 1959, retaining its old-world charm inside while the exterior and lobby were rebuilt. Later refurbishments, notably in 2009 and a £13.8 million renovation in 2019, reinstated historic boxes and enhanced seating and amenities. In December 2019, to mark composer Stephen Sondheim's 90th birthday, it was fittingly renamed the Sondheim Theatre.
Since its inception, the theatre has welcomed legends such as Fred Astaire, Noel Coward, Marlene Dietrich, Maggie Smith, Kenneth Branagh, and Alec Guinness. Major hits have included Stop the World - I Want to Get Off, Three Sisters, Passion, Contact, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and The Taming of the Shrew. But its signature claim to fame came in April 2004, when Les Misérables transferred from the Palace Theatre. The epic musical celebrated its 20th anniversary here in 2005 and became the longest-running West End show by October 2006. It continues its record-breaking run to this day.
Map
Transport
By Train
The nearest mainline train station is Charing Cross Station and is also reachable on the Tube on the Bakerloo and Northern lines. The theatre can also be accessed via Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly line, Bakerloo line).
By Bus
The nearest bus lines are 14, 19 & 38.
Parking
If driving, the nearest car parks are MasterPark at Poland Street and China Town.
Accessibility
Number of Steps
18 steps from the foyer up to the rear Dress Circle. 21 steps from the foyer down to the Stalls. 39 steps from the foyer to the Upper Circle (this area is quite steep).
Step-free information
Wheelchair access to the auditorium is through the fourth side door on Wardour Street. The Schönberg Loge has step-free access and can accommodate up to two wheelchairs with companions.
Wheelchair Access
The Sondheim Theatre has 2 wheelchair positions located in the Dress Circle. Wheelchair transfer seating is also available in Dress Circle on the aisle of Row D (D2 or D29).
Hearing Systems
There are infa-red systems available at the venue.
Guide Dogs
Assistance dogs are welcome at the Sondheim Theatre, and can either be taken into the auditorium or looked after during the performance.
General Access Info
For all access bookings, please call 0344 482 5137 or email access@delfontmackintosh.co.uk.
