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POINT OF INTEREST

Lyric Theatre London

29 Shaftesbury Ave., Soho, London, Greater London, W1D 7ES

The opulent Lyric Theatre is the oldest surviving theatre on London’s iconic Shaftesbury Avenue. With its chandeliers, gold detailing, and capacity of just under 1,000 seats, it offers a more intimate West End experience than many larger venues. Despite its size, the Lyric has hosted a range of hit productions over the years, including Hadestown (beginning in 2024), Cabaret, How the Other Half Loves, Blood Brothers, and the long-running Thriller Live.

The Basics

Performances of the Michael Jackson tribute show Thriller Live are held daily (except Mondays) at Lyric Theatre, while a changing roster of shows takes over the Monday night slot. Choose from among seats in the Dress Circle, Upper Circle, Balcony, or Stalls. Shows can sell out quickly, so booking tickets in advance is highly recommended.

Thriller Live* runs for about two and a half hours, including intermission.

  • Drinks and snacks are available to purchase before the show and during intermission.

  • Spaces allocated for wheelchair users are in the Dress Circle, and must be booked in advance.

  • Some seats have restricted views. Take a look at the theater’s seating plan before buying tickets.

How to Get There

Lyric Theatre is located in London’s West End, a short walk from Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square, and many central attractions. The closest London Underground station is Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines); Leicester Square station (Piccadilly and Northern lines) is also nearby.

When to Get There

Performances of Thriller Live are held Tuesday through Sunday evenings, with matinees on weekends. Monday evenings are for temporary or special shows.

Monday Nights at Lyric Theatre

Monday evenings at Lyric Theatre are reserved for temporary shows and monthly performances, as well as a number of one-off specials throughout the year. Shows have includedThe Simon & Garfunkel Story,Showstopper! The Improvised Musical,Liza Pulman Sings Streisand, and a family favorite,The Gruffalo.

Ways to explore

To see a show at the Lyric, it’s best to book tickets in advance. Seating is split across four main areas: Stalls, Dress Circle, Grand Circle, and Balcony, with central stalls (rows F–J) usually offering the best views. If you’re not attending a show, another popular way to see the theater is on a West End and South Bank theater–themed walking tour. For extra jazz—choose a musical walking tour with headsets so you can sing as you walk.

Accessibility

The theater is wheelchair accessible, with an accessible entrance on Shaftesbury Avenue and an adapted restroom. Though the bars aren’t accessible, the theater staff can purchase drinks for you.

Age limits

Check each show individually, as some have age restrictions.

What to pack

Opera glasses (binoculars) if you’re near the back, sealed bottled water

What to wear

Comfortable clothing, extra layers

Not allowed

Glass, laser pointers, aerosols, food and drink (apart from sealed water bottles)

Amenities

Coat check, bar, restrooms, air-conditioning

Address

On Shaftesbury Avenue in London’s West End, the Lyric Theatre is close to a number of public transportation stops, including Piccadilly Circus. Some visitors also explore the West End on a walking tour.

Driving

Driving isn’t ideal in London’s busy West End, so it’s best to use a rideshare app if you want to go by car. If you do decide to drive, the closest place to park is Q-Park Chinatown, at Newport Place.

Public transportation

For a simple, convenient way to get to the theater, use public transit. The closest London Underground station is Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines). Leicester Square station (Piccadilly and Northern lines) is also nearby.

Best times to visit

For tours, come in the morning after rush hour. For shows, matinees may be quieter than evening performances.

Best days to visit

Ideally, come during the week if you can, as weekends in the West End are very popular.

Best months to visit

It’s always a good time to come to the theater, but June through September may offer better weather outside.

Special events

Check the events calendar for special shows, such as West End Introducing: In Concert—typically in June—a showcase of emerging talent.

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