The West End is the heart of the theatre world in London, standing with the same calibre as the likes of New York’s Broadway. But there are local theatres hidden across South London, gems for you to uncover. The smaller nature of many of the theatres not only means you don’t have to fight your way through the bustling West End crowds, but also adds a level of intimacy and connection that can revolutionise your theatre experience. Let’s celebrate National Theatre Day, on the 27th of March, by checking out what this collection of South London theatres has to offer!
The Globe
21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, SE1 9DT
Arguably the most well-known theatre, not just in South London but around the world, The Globe was the original home of the works of William Shakespeare. In 1599 Shakespeare’s Julius Cesar was first shown, 423 years later and you can see the very same play in a faithful reconstruction of the original, only a stone’s throw away from where the original stood. During a showing of Henry VIII in 1613 The Globe burnt down and was subsequently rebuilt in the same location before being torn down by Puritans in 1644 as they waged a war against the arts. Henry VIII is another work from Shakespeare that you can still watch at The Globe, a part of their summer lineup this year. Whether you go for a classic retelling or a modern interpretation, there is little more magical than watching Shakespeare at The Globe!
Blue Elephant Theatre
59a Bethwin Road, Camberwell, SE5 0XT
Theatre isn’t all about the shows and performances. They can serve a vital connective role in their communities and that is a key service that the Blue Elephant Theatre in Camberwell provides! Since the end of lockdown they have been running drama workshops for wellbeing. It is a wonderful way for people to connect after such a long time in isolation. Creativity, like drama, can play such a vital role in improving our mental wellbeing and their classes are an exceptional example of how effective it can be! To prepare for upcoming shows, get yourself a South London Club Card for 10% off tickets!
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South London Theatre
The Old Fire Station, 2A Norwood High Street, Norwood, SE27 9NS
A grade II listed former Fire Station might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of a theatre, but this one is the home of one of South London’s best independent theatres. They are a non-professional theatre but you wouldn’t realise that by going because everything from their venue to their performances are of an impeccably high standard. There are plenty of shows to pick from, with their aim being 20 productions a year! If you fancy your hand at being involved in amateur dramatics, then you should follow them so you can keep an eye out for open auditions for some of their productions!
The Old Vic
The Cut, Waterloo, SE1 8NB
The Old Vic is one of the biggest and most well-known theatres in South London and is hailed by many as one of London’s best independent, not-for-profit theatres. It is a magnificent venue with a theatre having been at the location since 1818 and has been colloquially known as The Old Vic for over 120 years. It was damaged during the blitz and since its reopening in 1951 it has had Grade II listed building status. They are famed for the eclectic range of productions that engage, inspire, and challenge the audience through powerful and surprising art. They are a beacon of accessibility in that they are dedicated to platforming a variety of creatives and ensuring everyone has access to see them, with tickets starting from only £10. With a packed schedule that showcases everything from passionate drama to family-friendly play, The Old Vic will have something on for you to enjoy!
The Brockley Jack Studio Theatre
410 Brockley Road, Honor Oak, SE4 2DH
Sharing part of their venue with a spacious pub of the same name, The Brockley Jack is an intimate venue in southeast London that produces exciting and inspiring theatre! As part of Lewisham’s year as London Borough of Culture, The Brockley Jack have also been running a free film festival, showcasing a range of films at their theatre with the last coming on the 26th of March. Don’t be worried that the screenings are coming to an end, for now, as they have plenty more in store for the rest of the year on top of their normal selection of brilliant productions! Following the film screenings they have a schedule full of great productions ready for the summer; following the Brockley Jack Studio gives you a wonderful opportunity to find out about and see unique stories from talented people that aren’t on most people’s radars!
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