History of London Theatres: Virtual Tour

The entire world is a stage in London theatreland! Competing with New York City as the greatest place to see theatre in the English-speaking world, London offers a rich and varied theatrical experience. Stephen Benton will guide us on a digital journey through the history and splendor of theatrical London. Travel back to the 16th century and explore the world of Shakespeare’s playhouses, learning why these iconic buildings no longer stand. Discover historic playhouses over 200 years old, iconic Victorian palaces of marble and gilt, sleek Art Deco buildings, stark mid-20th-century concrete theatres, and the most cutting-edge 21st-century venues. Each theatre has its own fabulous stories and unique charm. With around 45 West End theatres and countless smaller venues, London boasts an impressive array of theatrical options. At any given time, you can find around 25 different musicals, including the world’s longest-running musical, “Les Misérables,” which first opened in 1985 and has performed over 15,000 shows with no signs of closing. Even more enduring is “The Mousetrap,” which opened in 1952 and has played nearly 30,000 performances, continuing its record-breaking run. Join Stephen Benton and tread the boards in London’s theatreland, experiencing the magic and history of one of the world’s most vibrant theatrical landscapes. ALL TICKET HOLDERS WILL RECEIVE A RECORDING OF THE VISUAL TOUR.