National Theatre

One of the most prominent performing arts venues in the country, the globally renowned National Theatre strives to make world-class theatre for everyone. With three houses that can each run up to three shows in repertoire, as well as a well-stocked digital library, it boasts impressive reach both at home and abroad.

The Grade II listed South Bank building was constructed in 1977 and houses three theatres. The largest is the Olivier Theatre, named after the National Theatre’s first artistic director Laurence Olivier. The 1160-capacity auditorium is styled after the ancient Greek theatre in Epidaurus, with an open stage and a fan-shaped seating area. The second largest space is the more conventionally designed Lyttelton Theatre for 890 people, while the Dorfman Theatre is the smallest yet highly flexible 400-capacity venue. In addition, the building houses a theatrical bookshop, restaurants and exhibition spaces.

The National Theatre puts on both classic plays and new works by rising and established talents alike, with many of its productions later touring around the world or transferring to Broadway. Meanwhile, the National Theatre Live initiative ensures easy access to the plays even if you’re unable to make it to the venue. Select plays are broadcast to cinemas around the world, with the digital archive also available as a video-on-demand service, reaching millions around the globe each year.