Opened in 1874, The Criterion Theatre is situated within a listed building near the bustle of Piccadilly Circus. Unusually the box office is the only part of the theatre that is above street level- the theatre itself is completely underground. Theatre visitors descend a tiled staircase to reach the three tiered, 585 seater venue. The Criterion was originally designed as a concert hall, but the restrictions of being situated underground meant that, during construction, the purpose of the venue was changed to that of a theatre. The theatre was forced to close in 1883 because of the dangers of gaslight illumination and poor ventilation. It was reopened the following year with electric lighting and an improved ventilation system.
Related Articles:
Listing Details
- Address: 2 Jermyn Street, London, Greater London,SW1Y 4XA,United Kingdom
- Phone: 020 7839 8811
- Website: http://www.criterion-theatre.co.uk/Home
- Email: admin@criterion-theatre.co.uk
- Get there by bus: 3, 6, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15,19, 22, 23, 38, 88, 94, 139, 159, 453
- Get there by tube/train: Piccadilly Circus, Charing Cross
- Wheelchair access: Yes
-
Additional information:
There are two wheelchair spaces in the back row of the Upper Circle.
Wheelchair access is through the step free entrance beside the Stage Door in Jermyn Street, behind the theatre.
Opening Times
- Monday 8pm - 9pm
- Tuesday 8pm - 9pm
- Wednesday 8pm - 9pm
- Thursday 8pm - 9pm
- Friday 8pm - 9pm
- Saturday 7:30pm - 9pm
-
-
-
-
-