Celebrate World Theatre Day: A Guide to Affordable Theatre
In celebration of World Theatre Day, there’s nothing better than seeing a show. Theatre in London is often said to be a scramble for expensive tickets – and waiting online and refreshing the page can also take away a bit of that theatre magic. But never fear! There are plenty of great shows available around town that won’t break the bank. With minimal scrambling required! Here are our top picks for quality shows on now, for £35 or less per ticket.
Tom Stoppard’s spectacularly witty play is rendered in hilarious fashion under Patrick Marber’s directorial gaze, starring Tom Hollander. At only £26 for grand circle seats, the Apollo Theatre plays host to one of the best comedies in town at the moment. Set in Switzerland, the story follows Henry Carr, an unknown English diplomat (based on a real person), as he recalls his time in Zurich during the First World War. His encounters with James Joyce, Lenin and Tristan Tzara tumble forth, in a play that is pure literary pastiche and parody.
In the modern political climate, you might be a little oversaturated by stories about politics – but if not, this production promises sharp writing and a witty critique of how history repeats when it comes to politics. Set in 1981, four prominent Labour politicians meet in a home in Limehouse, searching for a political solution to the conflicts of the day. Roger Allam has attracted much praise for his work as Roy Jenkins in this production, a fictionalised play based on real events, written by Steve Waters. The Donmar Warehouse constantly offers up productions that are intense, original and provocative and this is no exception. Ticket availability is limited for each performance, but returns are also available online, with the majority of tickets in pricing bands up to £30 (plus a booking fee).
My Brilliant Friend (Parts 1 and 2)
At Kingston’s Rose Theatre, this two part adaptation of Elena Ferrante’s bestselling series is a bit of a time commitment – each part is two and a half hours (including a 20 minute interval) – but has received excellent reviews. Niamh Cusack and Catherine McCormack play out the epic friendship of Elena and Lila. Chronicling their lives from childhood in 1950s Naples, the story spans six decades of upheaval, violence, ambition and self-destruction. Tickets are still available directly from the Rose Theatre online, with seats available around £35.
For something a little more upbeat, head to the Vaudeville Theatre to see Amanda Holden lead this comedy about tap dancing away your troubles. Written by Richard Harris and directed by three-time Olivier Award winner Maria Friedman, this production will be sure to add a pick-me-up to your week, demonstrating the power of theatre to help escape all your troubles for an evening! Tickets are available from £22.40 here.
La Cage Aux Folles - Outside London
Appearing next in Bristol, La Cage Aux Folles is currently on a tour around the UK, a new production that is sure to delight. It follows Georges and his partner, the dazzling drag artist Albin, as they come to terms with Georges’ son Jean-Michel’s impending marriage to the daughter of a notorious conservative politician. Living a vibrant life in St Tropez, the meeting of such vastly different parents challenges Albin to play the part of a lifetime to ensure Jean-Michel can marry his love. Dates available in Bristol, York, Woking, Liverpool, Glasgow and more! Tickets available online up to £35.
The Bad Seed
Until 1st April, The Bad Seed at the Brockley Jack offers a night of entertainment in a quieter venue, where tickets are £15 for adults, £12 for concessions. It follows the story of Christine Penmark – she has a wonderful home, husband and daughter. A tragic accident during her daughter’s school trip leaves Christine forced to confront a growing number of “accidents” that occur around her daughter. A haunting story, the Bad Seed is based on the novel by the same name, a more faithful adaptation than the 1956 film.
Watch David Tennant play out Moliere’s famous womaniser Don Juan, in another play on now directed by Patrick Marber. This is a modern update of the tragicomedy, set in contemporary London. Seats at Wyndham's Theatre for this limited run are definitely becoming scarcer by the day – but there are still some spots available between £11 and £30, particularly if you’re willing to attend a matinee performance (or stand for the show). Not recommended for under 16s!
The Glass Menagerie
Tennessee Williams’ classic play The Glass Menagerie still has tickets available from £20 via London Theatre. It's a four-hander, delving into the memories of these flawed characters – a domineering mother, an out-of-place daughter, a son desperate to leave home, and a mysterious gentleman caller… Cherry Jones, since her fine work in Amazon’s Transparent, reprises her Tony Award winning role as Amanda Wingfield.
For something a little more traditional, head over to the Young Vic to see their latest production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Tickets are available under £30, with several seats still available each day.
Express your love of all things theatre this World Theatre Day and snap up some tickets to these great shows!
Header photo credit: Apollo Theatre ©
