Theatre Royal Stratford East

Location

About

Theatre Royal Stratford East Theatre is one of the most iconic and historic theatres in London, England. Situated in the heart of Stratford, this theatre has been entertaining audiences for over a century. From its rich history to its exciting productions, there's plenty to see and experience at the Theatre Royal Stratford East. In this article, we'll explore what makes this theatre such a popular tourist destination.

History

The Theatre Royal Stratford East was built in 1884 and has a rich history that spans over a century. Originally known as The Stratford East Palace Theatre, this venue has seen some of the most iconic productions of all time. From classic plays to cutting-edge contemporary theatre, the Theatre Royal Stratford East has something for everyone.

One of the most notable productions at the theatre was the premiere of the musical "Oh, What a Lovely War!" in 1963. This production was a huge success and went on to have a long run in London's West End. Other notable productions include "The Hostage" by Brendan Behan and "The Blacks" by Jean Genet.

The Theatre

The Theatre Royal Stratford East is a beautiful venue that has been designed with the audience in mind. The auditorium has a capacity of 460 and offers a comfortable and intimate setting for performances. The stage is also equipped with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, ensuring that every performance is of the highest quality.

One of the most unique features of the Theatre Royal Stratford East is its stage design. The theatre is known for its thrust stage, which extends into the audience, allowing for a more immersive theatre experience. This means that the audience is closer to the action and feels more involved in the performance.

Productions

The Theatre Royal Stratford East has a diverse programme of productions that appeal to a wide range of audiences. From classic plays to contemporary productions, there is always something new and exciting to see at the theatre.

One of the most popular productions at the theatre is the annual pantomime. This is a traditional British form of theatre that is performed during the Christmas season. The pantomime is a family-friendly show that is full of fun, music, and laughter.

Other productions at the theatre include new plays, musicals, and adaptations of classic works. The theatre also has a strong focus on community engagement and often produces shows that explore social issues and promote diversity.

Location

The Theatre Royal Stratford East is located in Stratford, in the east of London. The area is easily accessible by public transport, with Stratford station being just a short walk away. Stratford is a vibrant and diverse area that is home to many attractions, including the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Westfield Stratford City, one of the largest shopping centres in Europe.

Conclusion

The Theatre Royal Stratford East Theatre is a must-see destination for any tourist visiting London. With its rich history, unique stage design, and diverse programme of productions, there's something for everyone at this iconic theatre. So why not add a trip to the Theatre Royal Stratford East to your London itinerary and experience the magic of live theatre?

Gallery

Things to do nearby

Theatre Royal Stratford East is a popular tourist destination located in the heart of Stratford, London. The area is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community, and there is no shortage of places and things to do nearby for tourists. In this article, we will explore some of the best attractions and activities that are within walking distance of Theatre Royal Stratford East.

Shopping:

One of the most popular shopping destinations near Theatre Royal Stratford East is Westfield Stratford City. This is the largest urban shopping center in Europe and offers a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Visitors can spend hours exploring the many stores, from high-end luxury brands to affordable high-street shops.

Culture:

The area around Theatre Royal Stratford East is steeped in culture, with several museums and galleries nearby. The Museum of London Docklands is just a short distance away and is a fascinating look at the history of London's docklands. It offers exhibits on everything from the slave trade to modern-day shipping.

Art lovers should also check out the Stratford Art Space. This contemporary art gallery showcases the work of both emerging and established artists and is located just a stone's throw from the theatre.

Parks:

Stratford is home to several beautiful parks that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is a must-visit destination for anyone in the area. This sprawling park offers stunning views of the London skyline and has plenty of walking trails, playgrounds, and green spaces to explore.

Another nearby park is West Ham Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. This park has a wide range of facilities, including tennis courts, a bandstand, and a boating lake.

Food and Drink:

There is no shortage of fantastic food and drink options near Theatre Royal Stratford East. The area is home to many great restaurants, cafes, and bars that cater to all tastes and budgets.

One popular option is the Roof East bar, which offers stunning views of the city skyline and serves up delicious cocktails and small plates. Another great spot is the Darkhorse Bar & Restaurant, which offers a modern take on classic British cuisine.

Conclusion:

The area around Theatre Royal Stratford East is a fantastic destination for tourists. With its rich cultural heritage, beautiful parks, and excellent food and drink options, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a day of shopping, an afternoon in the park, or an evening of culture, you'll find it all just a short distance from the theatre. So next time you're in the area, be sure to explore all the fantastic attractions and activities nearby.