Old Vic Theatre

The Old Vic Theatre has featured superb performances for nearly 200 years

Front facade of the Old Vic Theatre
Front facade of the Old Vic Theatre cc licensed photo by Peter Broster

The Old Vic Theatre was first established in 1818 at which time it was called the Royal Coburg Theatre. In 1880 it changed ownership and became the Royal Victoria Hall. Beginning in 1914 the theatre began running a series of Shakespeare plays. Heavily damaged by the air raids of 1940, the theatre was re-opened in 1950.

The Old Vic Theatre Company was established in 1929. In 1963 the company was dissolved and replaced by the National Theatre Company which played at the Old Vic until opening their own theatre across the river in 1976. The Old Vic continued to host both classic and new dramas. In 1985 it benefited from a substantial restoration. In the year 2000 the building was purchased by a charitable trust.

Well known American actor Kevin Spacey has been the artistic director of the new Old Vic Theatre Company since 2003, bringing new life and a mixture of British and American talent to the stage. He personally appears in one or two shows each year.

The Old Vic can accommodate an audience of a little over 1000 guests. For more information about the Old Vic Theatre as well as shows and schedules visit their official website link below.



Facts For Your Visit

Fee: Yes

Old Vic Theatre Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM
  • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM
  • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM
  • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM
  • Friday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM
  • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM

Address: 103 The Cut, London SE1 8NB, UK

Phone: 0344 871 7628

Official Website: Old Vic Theatre

Old Vic Theatre Reviews

Rated 4.7 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating Fabulous theatre! Staff are super attentive too, I had an issue where I was sat and the ushers were quick to help me resolve it. Plenty of loos - love that they’re gender inclusive. Price of merchandise is really affordable too compared to other theatres. The box office staff are really helpful, allowed me to exchange a ticket for credit voucher
Ben Donaghy - a week ago

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5 Star Rating I didn’t care for this particular play but the venue is excellent. There’s really no awful seats. I think 🤔 that you would have a good view from anywhere, other than maybe the top floor. (I’ve never bought seats up there) Every floor has a concession with a seating area. (Not the main entrance) The seats are comfortable with plenty of leg room. The sound system is good and it’s easy to hear what’s being said.
Christoffel Van Dijk - 2 months ago

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5 Star Rating We went to a play called The Brightening Air, which was actually downright amazing: the writing and the acting. Phenomenal. This also gave us an opportunity to meet this establishment, which we highly recommend. Before the show began you can drink beer or wine or even take some snacks with you into the theater. Also, babies are allowed. But none of that changes the absolutely fantastic atmosphere of creative playwriting perform seamlessly in a beautiful beautiful Hall. My recommendation is that anything that goes on there is worthwhile
Chaim Noy - a month ago

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5 Star Rating Watched ‘Oedipus’ starring Rami Malek and Indira Varma. It was a great venue and the performance was amazing. The building looks a bit old but rather classy. It is also very easy to find as it is just almost outside London Waterloo station.
Paulo Martin - 4 months ago

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5 Star Rating Having traveled from Athens, Greece – a city steeped in ancient drama – I had high expectations for Oedipus Rex at The Old Vic, and I must say, it exceeded them in every way. Rami Malek delivered an outstanding performance as Oedipus, capturing the character’s tragic descent with depth and intensity. His portrayal was powerful, nuanced, and emotionally charged. The entire cast was exceptional, each actor contributing to the gripping narrative with authenticity and passion. The chorus was truly mesmerizing, adding an almost ethereal quality to the performance. The combination of movement, rhythm, and hauntingly beautiful soundscapes created an atmosphere that was both immersive and unforgettable. The sound design itself was remarkable, enhancing every moment with subtlety and precision. Having experienced Oedipus Rex in iconic venues such as Epidaurus and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens, I can confidently say that this production stands among the very best. It was a unique interpretation that honored the classic while bringing a fresh, compelling energy to the stage. This was not just one of the finest renditions of Oedipus Rex I’ve seen – it was one of the most powerful theatrical experiences I’ve ever had. The Old Vic truly delivered a masterpiece.
George Delijohn - 4 months ago

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Directions

Tube Line Nearest Station Walking Time
Northern and Jubilee and Bakerloo LinesWaterloo5 Minutes

How to get to Old Vic Theatre by Tube

From Waterloo Station exit onto Waterloo Road and go to your right (south). The Old Vic Theatre is a short walk ahead on the southeast corner of Waterloo Road and The Cut.

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