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: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

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 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 - a month ago

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5 Star Rating An absolutely incredible performance of A Christmas Carol. The cast was fantastic. The atmosphere was incredible. The staff were amazing also. We had warm mince pies and snowflakes!
William Kitching - 3 months ago

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5 Star Rating Firstly the show we went to "A Christmas Carol" was absolutely brilliant & a good show always has an impact on your feelings towards the venue. Now to the venue itself. The Old Vic, is an old theatre no getting away from that. As such most of the seating is inaccessible if you can't climb a lot of stairs. It's vital anyone with mobility issues checks this out prior to booking tickets. If that's not an issue, I think it's a great venue. We were up in the God's, the safety rail was in my eye line but such was the show I soon absorbed it and didn't annoy me. I'm guessing the stage is movable as this production took up much of the ground floor, with the lucky Audiance down there scattered around the stage area. Very enjoyable, a very very long time since I saw "John, Paul, George, Ringo & Bert" there. I won't (can't) wait another 40 years!
David Tedman - 3 months ago

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4 Star Rating Went to see Oedipus : it's a lovely theatre but some areas are small and get very crowded (this evens out the higher up you get). Staff were really friendly and helpful, good choice of drinks and not too expensive and seats were comfortable with good views.
Camilla Steel - 2 weeks ago

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5 Star Rating Went to see ‘A Christmas Carol’ adaptation on book by Charles Dickens. Fantastic production and great performances and characters. Great interaction with audience which made it so much fun.🎭 Love this Victorian theatre
gloria Arraiano Moller - 3 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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