STALLS
The Dress Circle overhangs the stalls at row N, the top of the stage is not
visible from row S back, and rows V to XX suffer from feeling very enclosed by
the low ceiling.The stalls are split into central and two side blocks by aisles. The rake
becomes noticeable in row F and is good enough to allow fine views from many
seats.
Rows A to C are restricted view for most children and shorter adults, as the
stage is high and they cannot see the back of it. The box office tries not to sell
these seats to young people for that reason, and warns all buyers - a laudable policy which avoids
problems, feels the monkey. The prices charged do not
always account for this problem, though.
At performances where these seats are full price, monkey advice is perhaps to
sit further back unless your have a particular liking for front row seating. For
shorter visitors, further back is the way to go generally, of course.
The orchestra conductor is usually in front of central seats in row A. Below stage
height and enclosed by a short extended stage between seats and main stage, but
some purists might wish to know and avoid if that kind of thing bothers them.
For "Sister Act," one reader comments,
"Got a day seat for £25 - seat A14, this seat for the price is a BARGAIN
at 6ft5 there was more then enough leg room to sit comfortably and could
see virtually 99% of all the stage action! and speaking to a woman next
to me who was 5ft6 she said her view was fantastic too!"
Reader Kirsty also rates the view from A14, "fantastic."
4ft 11 tall reader Rebecca notes,
"I have seen 'Sister Act' several times from the front row (centre
section). Leg room is acceptable, and maybe slightly above normal from
my experience. The stage is very close so occasionally footwork from
those at the back is cut off, but with 'Sister Act' that's not
important. This is my favourite seat in the theatre, but does require
some slouching and neck bending, especially in the opening of the show
where the actors spend some time above the stage. Recommended from me."
Another reader adds,
"Got to the box office at 4pm and my friends and I got 5 seats centre
front row. I was in A12. For £25 it was just perfect! The stage isn't
overly high and I could see pretty much everything. Because I couldn't
see the stage floor the set was so magical because it just appeared, I
had no idea where it was coming from which made it spectacular!!!
Definitely recommend sitting here for this show"
In the same seat, another opines, SPOILER AHEAD FOR "SISTER ACT":
"Day Seats are really good, when it is no problem for you to get up
early in the morning and queue at the theatre (which was so hard for me
because standing up before p.m. is a torture for me)! I was seated in
A12, next to the POPE. You can see everything on the stage but you have
to lift up your head when the action is going on higher ground! And it
is sometimes a little bit like watching a tennis game in Wimbledon, you
have to look right and left and right and left etc because the stage is
so massive! But it does not ruin your evening! When you're a morning
person and you're able to catch a day seat ticket, just do it. You will
have a wonderful time on a very good non-expensive but totally 'in the
action' seat!" SPOILER ENDS.
while another says, in summary,
"A7: The front row is the way to see this show!"
The monkey upgraded the value rating on the strength of this.
Reader Elaine comments,
"I was lucky enough to get A16 and 17,
which is slightly off centre (so the conductor was not
in our way) but not too far to the side for much
action to be obstructed by actors' backs."
Another readers says,
"We got front row seats A8, A9, A10 (cheap as 'day seats' when "The Sound
Of Music" was playing in 2006). These were fabulous viewing
- the view was fine, can't see the people's feet but not that you would want
to!!!"
Reader Angela Xu opines,
"I noticed some comments on the site about the front row seats being too close
to the stage and hence problematic for shorter adults- would like to say that
there is really no real issue- I am 5'2 and enjoyed the show ("The Sound Of
Music" in 2006) thoroughly from
Seat A8. there were a couple of kids sitting in the same row and I didn't notice
them sitting on bolster seats or craning their necks at all! for 20 pounds the
day seats are amazingly good value for money!"
For "Sister Act" row A are again cheap "Day Seats" and
the monkey welcomes comments. As for previous productions, it likes 5 to
21 best of these, for central / least obstructed views.
Further along, reader Kirsty says for "Sister Act,":
"A23 and 24: It was brilliant being sat so close, as I got to look more
closely at facial expressions and costume detail. Good value for money
but, being right at the side, you do miss some of the action on the far
left of the stage and right at the back as the stage is very high."
Reader Mark struck lucky at the same show,
"A1: Seeing as though all the front row are top price for Whoopi
Goldberg's run (August 2010) except A1, 2, 24 and 25, I felt that my
seat was a STEAL at £25. I went in on the off chance they had a single
cheap upper circle seat left and got offered this seat when I asked for
the absolute cheapest single seat. I was extremely impressed with it,
especially as I was SO close to Whoopi when she came out. Excellent
value."
Reader Val comments on the situation further back:
"Booked Row C 24 / 25 at top price. my companion felt unwell having to look up
at the stage. we couldn't see the dancers feet at "Sinatra."
At the interval we told the manager and he upgraded us to stalls row J 14 / 15
where we could everything."
The same would apply for "Sister Act" feels the monkey, though a reader says,
"'Sister Act': sat in row C of the centre block in the stalls. An excellent seat
in an excellent show!" and another comments for the same show, "Row C seats
13 and 14. Being 6'5" I had no problems with the height of the stage, and my
considerably shorter wife found looking up at the stage helpful as it meant the
people in front did not block her view - she was really happy with where we were
sat. These are good seats if you do not mind not always seeing the actors feet,
legroom is OK (It's never going to be better than that!) and being on the aisle
was great. If you have children with you, I would recommend going further back
or to the circle where the rake is steeper."
Reader Paul comments for "Sister Act,"
"D 13 to 15: A fabulous view from these seats, but would not recommend
it for children due to the flat rake and high stage. This was
demonstrated by the Americans behind who spent ten minutes after they
sat down pacifying their child who couldn't see, even with a booster.
Legroom adequate but no better."
Another reader comments:
"We did enjoy the show but even row E, where we sat, was far too close
(for "Sinatra"). We couldn't see the dancers feet and had to crane our
necks when the movable screens were high. I would recommend anyone to
sit dress circle or mid to rear stalls rather than what is normally
regarded as the best seats in near to front stalls."
The centre block offers clear views of the stage. Row J seats 16 to 31 are
rated the best seats in the house by theatremonkey. At top price pick rows J
then K or I then L, M , H, G, N or O, F or P, E or Q depending on whether you
are keener on seeing the whole stage, or being generally
closer to the action.
For "Sister Act," row H, plus centre block aisle seats (and
two each side over the aisle on Saturday evenings) in rows I, J,
K and L are "premium" priced. Your call, feels the monkey, who would
rate them just "fair" at the price.
Reader K Favelle says,
"Had row G seats in the stalls, fairly central within the central block.
I think we were 21 to 23 but I might be one out either way. We really
enjoyed the show from these seats as we felt close enough to the stage
to really be able to see the actors' expressions clearly but not so
close that we had to strain our necks back or lose a wider view of the
whole stage.
Legroom felt fine (though none of us was taller than 5 foot 6 inches)
though I suspect it would have been tight for my very tall husband had
he been with us."
Reader Georgie Harris comments,
"we sat in the stalls Row G seats 25 to 28 which were perfect"
Reader Mandi agrees,
"Myself, my mum and my 6 year old son had seats Stalls G26-28. These seats were
great as we had a perfect view of the stage"
Reader Mila echoes this,
"Our seats in row G of the stalls (thanks to Theatremonkey and dogged
persistence at the box office) were excellent, a perfect view."
Reader Rupi adds, for "Sister Act" (June 2009)
"Row G 20 and 21 - fantastic seats! Close to the action whilst still
being able to see the whole stage."
That isn't generally an issue for other musicals, but the monkey felt it
advice some may find helpful, especially for sequences
taking place on raised areas of the stage.
Another reader comments, for "Sister Act" (June 2009),
"Row H was great for the view if a little tight in the leg
space."
In row I, reader Nigel Williams says,
"We sat in I27 and I28 which is approx 8 rows from the stage and one
seat in from the aisle. They were superb and as I looked around I
honestly couldn't see any seats I'd much rather be sat in."
Reader Caryl says for "The Sound of Music,"
"We had perfect viewing seats in the stalls L16, 17 and 18."
Reader Joss comments for "Sister Act,"
"Row P 16 to 21 and Q16 to 20: On the aisle. The seats were small but
comfy, and there was more legroom than most (but not great if you have
long legs). None of our group had cause to complain. The view was great,
you could see the whole stage, nothing was missed and the overhang of
the balcony above does not obstruct the view of this show at all."
Reader Tim Powell observes:
"Seats 32/33 in Row P in the Stalls which gave a perfectly good view (but I
would probably be aggrieved at having to pay the same top price as the front
rows if we weren't on a half price discount)."
A point well made, felt the monkey. Another reader notes perfect sightlines
from central row R, though one adds,
"We were seated right in the middle of row R in the stalls and found the view to
be very good, apart from at the end where the escapees on the mountain were lost
for a few seconds as the mountain turned. Leg room was excellent."
One reader notes that row D is close enough to see the facial expressions but
feels that sitting 2 rows back would have been better as, " the stage is
high so it blocks the view a bit and you can't see the dancers feet when they
are towards the back of the stage".
Reader Tamara comments:
"Sat stalls row L seats 20 and 21, perfect for me, centre stage, not too far forward or too far back. Just right to feel part of the action and see the actors faces, without having to crane the
neck".
Against this the Palladium is a vast
theatre and sitting far back yields only average value for money if seats are
top price. In this case, being nearer the front gets the monkey value for money
vote.
For "Sister Act" high prices make row S to U worth avoiding. There are much
better tickets further forward for the bananas charged. From row V, aside from
seats around the sound desk, the value is just fair. If legroom is an issue, pay
more to take seats in the rest of the rear stalls, otherwise the view from the
Upper Circle make sitting there a cheaper option well worth thinking about.
Regular theatremonkey seat reporting reader Mark comments,
"Row S for 'Sister Act' (September 2009): Good clear view but felt quite
distant. The other two times I was in Row A stalls and I honestly don't
think there is anywhere better to sit for this show than right at the
front."
In row T, reader Paul Jones says,
"We were in the Stalls in row T and seats 15/16/17/18 on the end of the
central block. As these were the second tier prices (for "The Sound Of
Music" in 2006), although the
operator discounted them even further... they were excellent value. With
a 5 and 7 year old in tow we were not sure how it would go, as they like
to be closer to the action, but no grumbles and with the eye glasses in
use, albeit sparingly, they did not move much, the kissing scenes being
the exception! We got there early to get the booster seats; but the rake
is quite good at Row T... The sound was fine where we were and, as
someone noted, you cannot see the top of the stage quite - but this does
not matter as all scenery is below it a little, so we did not miss
anything."
Reader Cristopher H, further along, says,
"Our seats were T 33 to 35 and they were absolutely wonderful
(cheaper for "The Sound Of Music" in 2006)as the rake is very
noticeable."
Reader Jackie agrees,
"Row T was very good (cheaper for "The Sound Of Music" in 2006) and given
the rake we had a very good view – leg
room was less desirable though."
Reader Gill Gill says of their group visit to "Sister Act" (May
2009),
"Rows O to T 28 to 40 side stalls. No problems mentioned at all
regarding the seats, the view was good and audio perfect."
Row V 23 to 29 is in front of, and rows W to XX are beside, the sound desk.
This is annoying, so choose W 12 to 20 and W 30 to 45, and X and XX 1 to 5 and X 15 to
20 and XX 8 to 11 to avoid the worst of the problem. These seats offer very
fair value and theatremonkey prefers them to the Upper Circle on grounds of
legroom, though accepts they are a tad more expensive.
From row V at "Sister Act" (May 2009) reader Kirsty reports,
"Row V seat 36: Despite being right at the back, the set design wasn't
so big that my view was hampered. I saw the actors, I saw the set and I
felt I paid the right value of money for the seat (£41)."
In row X, reader James says that his parents report,
"Seats 1 and 2... my dad is tall and likes an aisle so he can stretch
his legs. They have informed me that the view was brilliant, they
couldn't make out facial expressions, but and they didn't suffer from
being next to the sound desk."
The side block seats are almost all situated outside the proscenium. Most
readers feel that only the last 4 seats in each row should be avoided totally in
these blocks, though purists may want to make that 8 to be on the safe side.
Boxes overhang these seats back to row N, and the supporting pillars won't
enhance enjoyment of those in N1 much...and in N47 may be a minor irritant too.
Not blocking a view, just a heavy presence by the seat.
Note that those in the front four rows or so of the side blocks may find
actors backs blocking the view for a few short sequences of a production. Go for seats from G back to minimise the issue.
Reader Rebecca says,
"Sister Act, July 2009 row D, seats 28 and 29: The view from there was
generally good, but suffered some from the lack of rake in the front
section of the stalls. As I am only 4'11 and unfortunately had tall
people in front of me, I had to require a child booster cushion to get a
good view."
Even at top price, the feeling is that the rest give at least
moderate value for money - some are rather good...
...Luckily, there are a few decent seats, as reader Yvonne Coombes reports:
"Myself, my husband and daughter (4 and a half) sat in stalls seats G11 to13 and
these were fantastic. Great views throughout and close enough to really see the
expressions on the faces of the cast members. We got a booster cushion for my
daughter.
I would recommend these seats and those immediately round them to anyone."
In the same row, reader Jackie says,
"G7 and G8: Well positioned with enough leg room (I am 5 foot 9) to sit
comfortably."
Behind them, just a bit along, another reader says for "Sister Act"
(May 2009),
"H11: secured this ticket for £35 on an offer. Legroom was decent, and
the view was very clear – however bear in mind that the Palladium has a
very wide stage in comparison to other London theatres – so if you’re
paying full price, then the middle section of the stalls is definitely
preferable."
Further to the sides is another story...
Reader Julie warns that, "Myself and 2 children were in stalls seats
H40-H42. While we enjoyed a lot of the show, our view was very restricted - apart from H40, we could not see the rear of the
stage at all, and missed some of the plot. Very disappointing".
Behind them, in J, reader Edward records,
"J1 and J2 afforded very good views of the stage, but we couldn't see
the right side and hence missed the whole of the part where the children
bid goodnight to the party and ascend the stairs."
Reader Steph Nicholls says, of discounted seats for "Sister Act" (May
2009),
"Got M40 to 46 for £37 each from the ticket booth in Leicester Square
underground. I had a good view from M40, others at the far end (M45/46 -
coloured red by Theatremonkey) were happy with the view though commented
that occasionally the walkway towards the back of the stage was obscured
by scenery in front."
In that same area, for the same show, another reader reports,
"If only my lovely relative had seen this site before spending A LOT of
money on tickets. Seat M41 in the stalls was one of the worst I've ever
experienced in a theatre. My own relative was sat in front of me and at
6ft is not extraordinarily tall. I (at 5ft 8) could not see the centre
of the stage for any of the show because his head entirely blocked it -
which meant missing a great deal. Also, a very strong cold breeze blew
at the block from M39 to M45 - we were all putting our scarves back on!
Wonder if it came from the exit that was at the back or an air con unit?
Such a shame."
Reader James F. says, also for 'Sister Act' (May 2009),
"I sat in the Stalls R7 and 8 and the Dress Circle obstructs the view of
the top right hand corner of the stage and because of the angle to the
stage some of Stage Left, but you don’t miss a single thing! The leg
room is OK, but not great, but unless you get a really tall person (or
someone wearing a habit that they brought from the merchandise stand),
your view should be unobstructed."
Towards the back of the stalls, a reader comments,
"T5 Great seat - when got for £25 for "The Sound of Music" (February
2009). No complaints but would have liked to be maybe a little bit
further forward."
In row V a reader says,
"I was in V1 and my knees were wedged in
which detracts from enjoyment. It was too far back to see or hear
properly for me."
For "Sister Act" the first and last seats in rows B to
L are designated
"restricted view" and priced more cheaply. With a saving of £15 or so, the monkey feels that seats in central row V would be
slightly more
satisfying for the same money. If you
must choose restricted view seats, pick D36, then row E then D37 first
to ensure the least is missed. Row B and C lose most, with the extreme ends of
the rows often having a view blocked by speakers - even top price B3 suffers a clip
from the speakers too - and those who dislike loud sound might be advised to sit
further back.
Reader Kan has made a very interesting discovery, "I saw CCBB in London
Palladium, it was a "full-house" and I was not able to obtain a ticket. Then I got a standing
ticket...
... Once inside I noticed there is a seat which is not recorded on any
seating plan or in their box office computer system seat Z1, just behind seat XX7.
I was the only one who bought a standing ticket that night, and so I took Z1
and had a seat during the whole show."
Maybe they will start to sell this ticket if anyone reads this, thinks the
monkey...but until then, it is worth knowing, isn't it?!
Wheelchairs can replace seats L46, O48, Q48 and S49. The view is poor
from all these seats. O 48 is the best of a bad bunch with distance offsetting
the poor viewing angle. Transfer is possible to any aisle seat. See notes.
In general the usual rule of the jungle applies to the stalls. Insist on
centre block seats as they are the same price as the sides. You are paying the same money
so why settle for an inferior seat.
Legroom is good throughout the stalls, best from row F back. Reader Joss felt
by rows P and Q things got a little less for the very tallest. Slightly limited
in row A 1 to 3 and 23 to 25, and Z1. F40, N1 and N16 have extra space for one
extra leg, while B 1, 2, 3, 32 and 33 and D 37 have nothing in front of them.
DRESS CIRCLE
Called the ROYAL CIRCLE in this theatre.
The Upper Circle overhangs the Dress Circle at row C. The top of the stage is
not visible from row J back.
A reader notes this isn't usually a problem. The Dress Circle is split into three blocks, centre and two sides by aisles.
The view from all seats is fine, except that the first and last six seats in
the side blocks from row G back sometimes suffered a bit in the past from bad
set design / lighting positions / overhang.
For "Sister Act," centre block row B, plus C on Saturday Evenings are
"premium" priced. Your call, feels the monkey, who would rate them just
"fair" at the price. It would take Stalls for legroom comfort first,
though, if taller; Dress Circle for view if legroom isn't a concern.
Theatremonkey regular seat connoisseur James says,
"B20 and B21 for “The Sound of Music”… for the view, best seats in the house!"
Seats in the centre block rows A to F particularly offer
good views of the stage. Oddly, the opera glasses have gone missing from the
backs of seats in the Dress Circle though. If anyone else finds this as
irritating as the monkey does, contact us! Those in the side blocks in these rows also have little
to complain of, though choose the centre block first.
Reader James from Finchley says of "The Sound of Music,"
"Sat in Dress Circle B27 and 28. The view was excellent. Having previously sat
in row I of the Stalls, I much preferred the Dress Circle as I could see the
whole stage without moving my head from side to side. The absence of any safety
rail at the front also contributes towards a great view. Having read various
comments and seen the whole section “in red” I was very concerned that I might
be very uncomfortable. However, I am 5’7” and found I had plenty of legroom –
I’ve sat in theatres that are far worse. "
The monkey has since relented and revised things to a "white" average
rating, taking into account view... It still warns all concerned that
there isn't the legroom expected for the price, though. See
further down the page.
From row C, regular contributor James says,
"A group of us sat in seats C15 to C29 for "Sister Act". Everyone said
they had a great
view and the sound is excellent here too."
Some readers confirm this for "Sinatra" (too February 2006):
"We were in Row D of the dress circle and could see everything."
Reader Tim Powell says of "The Sound of Music":
"We had seats 16-19 in Row D of the Dress Circle which were a little tight
leg-room wise but the view was excellent and at least, being the tallest, I had
an aisle seat to stick my leg down!
Further along, and over the aisle, in the same row for "Sister Act"
(June 2009) reader Hannah reports,
"D 8 to 15: The view from these seats was great, with a steep rake and
pretty good leg room. We only paid £20 for the tickets, as we got them
through a friend, so I don’t know if I would pay the usual £62.50 for
them. But if you have money to burn, they do offer a good view."
Reader K Fried says,
"Our seats (royal circle, C 31 and 32) were very good and the view was perfect.
Leg room is cramped, but not dire. Just check your bags and coat and unless
you've got unusually long legs, you'll do just fine."
Regular theatremonkey seat commentator James says,
"Had seats C31 to 37 in the Royal Circle for "Sister Act". The view is
great from most seats here although you are getting a little side on as
you get to the higher numbers. Sound is no problem from here. We got the
tickets for a special offer price of £19.50 which was an absolute
bargain!"
Another reader feels:
"row E20 - 24 must have been the best seats in the house perfect view at all
times"
Regular seat connoisseur James says,
"Sat in Royal Circle seats E20 and E21 for "Sister Act" (May 2009). Great view
and the sound is good from here too."
"Sat in Dress Circle seat F20 for "The Sound Of Music" (2007) and it was a fantastic view. It didn’t seem
distant which it can do from the 6th row of some Dress Circles. A very clear
view and excellent sound."
Another reader adds,
"Row F 24 to 27 – almost centre stage so good view of all the action and
adequate leg room."
Further out in row F, a reader says, for "Sister Act" (May 2009),
"F10 and F11: Sightlines were perfect, we saw everything and felt very
close to the action. Legroom was not as bad as I thought it would be (I
am 5 ft 11). There was no one in F9 which meant we had some extra space
which also made the difference."
It would, notes the monkey... hope for the same luck if you sit there
and are taller...
Next to them, at the same show, another reader observes,
"F13 to 17: on the right hand side next to aisle. Really good seats, and
more comfortable than I remember too. A bit tight on legroom, but I
didn't suffer that much."
Rows G to J offer only moderate value if sold at top price, since they are a
long way from the stage for the money. Rows K and L at top price have the
same fault - but L has an inch of extra legroom...
Reader LJF felt the seats in row G had a fine view, but were expensive
through the agency they bought them from.
A reader says,
"I did feel a little distant from the stage (in row J) and think the Upper
Circle rows C to G (in the centre block of course) may well give a similar view,
and £20 saving on top price."
A reader reports,
"We sat in the Dress Circle (I 48 and 49) for a production and unfortunately, the view of the
stage and a small amount of the action was slightly obscured due to the angle,
and it must have been worse for people in seats 50+"
Though this isn't always, monkey advice is still be careful
in the back rows at the ends of this wide Circle.
BIG BUT IN ALL SEATS. Legroom may well prove a real problem for anyone over
5ft 5 tall who will be seated for more than 30 minutes or so - though one 5ft 8
person reported no real issue. Row A is worst,
row L has an inch or so more space, but theatremonkey would not
willingly sit here even if given free tickets (though many readers would!.) New seating has improved things
to this state, which is better than it was, upgrading the circle to "white,"... but...! Inner aisle seats at the
ends of rows B, D, F, H, J and L have a little more space for one
leg to stretch into, while seats two seats off the outermost aisles in rows B to
D seem to have a tiny bit less. If below five foot five tall, try the circle; all others use the
stalls.
Reader Gordon says,
"We had seats B37, 38 and 39 in the Royal Circle - there was very little legroom
between the rows of seats."
Another reader adds,
"We were in row C of the Royal Circle. Super unrestricted view but as has been
said so many times about The Palladium 'don't go in the Royal Circle if you have
long legs'. I'm 6' 2" and not only was there a mountain on stage I had one
sitting next to me. About 20 stone covered in a pink pullover. His legs were so
fat he couldn't put them together so mine were wedged against the seat in front
and with the elevation of the circle it meant the sharp edge of the top of the
seat was wedged against the bone just below my knee. It is still painful to the
touch now 2 days later."
By contrast another reader reports,
"Our seats were in the Dress Circle Row H numbers 25 to 28 and have to say there
seemed to be plenty of leg-room even for my husband who is 6 feet tall - however
the bloke behind me seemed to find it hard not to keep kicking my seat
especially during Do-Re-Mi which rather had me on edge for that number - a few
choice stares seemed to make him realise he wasn't at home on the sofa able to
lounge about regardless."
To which another says,
"F10 and F11: Legroom was not as bad as I thought it would be (I am 5 ft
11). There was no one in F9 which meant we had some extra space which
also made the difference."
Dress Circle Boxes
Boxes B, C, BB and CC are at the sides of the theatre at Dress Circle level.
Boxes E, F, FF and EE are above them at Upper Circle level. All boxes usually offer a
fair, sideways view of the stage with only a minimal portion of the edges not
visible. Sold at third price they offer average value for money and decent legroom
at higher than stalls level. At top price, they are tending towards expensive,
though. Choose front stalls for the same price first.
One reader writes,
"I was quite impressed by the view even though you can't see the right hand side
of the stage."
Another reader was less keen for "The Sound of Music,"
Avoid Box BB for this show. Totally restricted view. We were in Box CC which was
just okay (slightly restricted view), but the people next to us in BB had to be
moved half way through - couldn't see a thing thanks to large speakers in the
way!!"
On limited sale for "Sister Act," notes the monkey, with B and BB
somewhat expensive, it feels.
UPPER CIRCLE
The Upper Circle overhangs the Dress Circle at row C. It is high above the
ground but is does not feel particularly distant from the stage or vertigo
inducing.
It is split into three blocks, centre and two sides by aisles.
A thick metal bar runs across the front of the circle. Row A and B are designated
restricted view because of it. Row A suffers most, the bar being directly in
your eye line. Rows B to D suffer from it to the extent of
being a mild annoyance neatly bisecting the actors at the waist. Metal
posts at the ends of all rows do not intrude into the view.
Reader Teresa Gustafsson says,
"A34. They warned us about the safety rail but for me (5.4), that wasn’t
a problem at all, I think it all depends on how you sit. We had a
perfect, clear view and the sound was great!"
Reader Jess adds,
"My Grannie and I, both 5ft 7, and also my parents (who are both 6ft),
sat in row A seats 30 and 31, located in the central block of seats in
the upper circle. Thanks to theatremonkey, we had already been
warned of the lack of legroom and the metal rail running horizontally
across the front of the upper circle, but we didn't find either of these
a problem.
However right in front of seat 31 there was a shorter vertical metal bar
supporting the rail which was awkward as you had to try and look around
it. I think these metal bars were in front of all the odd numbered seats
in the front row of the central block of the stalls. Overall, very good
seats for the price, although should be avoided by tall people who need
legroom, and also shorter children may find it hard to see."
The views from rows E to M is fairly clear in both centre and side blocks.
Reader Stephen compares row E with the Dress Circle,
"I mentioned that sitting in the middle of row E of the Upper Circle may be just
as good as the middle of row J in the Dress Circle which was where I was seated
last time. At £20 cheaper it is tempting and may just be worth it - but don't go
further back than row F, and certainly don't bother with rows A to D unless at a
last resort.
Row E in the Upper Circle is quite a good view. You are able to avoid the
leaners in row A and those in row B who are trying to look over the top of the
leaners. You are aware of the metal bar at the front of the Upper Circle , but
it appears in your eyeline at the front of the stage and is just out of the way.
However, the leg room is dire, worse than the Dress Circle and I am only 5ft 8." It is worth avoiding the first and last six seats in all rows since the
viewing angle is not great due to the curve of the circle and intrusion of the
boxes. One reader went further, saying:
"Sat in Upper Circle Row C 10 and 11 (for "The Sound Of Music" in 2006). Yes there is a metal rail which cuts the
actors in half, but this is always there. The main grievance is that even from
seat 10 you could not see Stage Left (right hand side of stage as they looked).
If C10 / 11 had problems then the poor souls who sat in seat numbers 1 to 9
would have been far worse. If you go to a theatre and have seat numbers 1-4, you
expect some lack of visibility down one side, but from Seat 10?
Additionally the audience in Row A when the action was at the front of the stage
had to lean forward, which meant that the rows behind also had to lean forwards
as well, a concertina effect."
In the second act, the person sat in C12 who is a bigger lad had no room to sit,
with knees which wouldn't fit into the space provided and ended up standing at
the back. This unfortunate situation at least meant the person in C10 could move
across one seat which was a slightly better view"
The monkey notes both the view and poor manners of the "leaning" people...
A row back, reader James F says,
"D 10 and 11... The seats offer a full view of the stage as the railings
appear just below the stage. If I were to sit here again I would chose
the centre block in rows D to F only!"
At the fifth price pick row E first, then D, F, G, H. Choose centre over side blocks for the usual
reason of if all blocks are the same price, centre is best value, no? Also,
decide if the rear stalls are more to your liking for legroom, and worth the
extra bananas.
A reader comments,
"Upper Circle seat F30 the view was very good and unobstructed apart from the nuns vanishing out of view at the start
as they moved towards the front of the stage and the mountain looking like
a UFO! The leg room however, wasn't good... I am 5'5 and felt very cramped."
Reader Steph Nicholls comments from J12 and J13,
"The Upper Circle should maybe be renamed the ‘incredibly high circle
with no leg room’. My wife (5ft 11) had to wedge her knees into the
space provided and has the bruises to prove it. I’m shorter, but found
there little room to move when I needed a change of position. The view
was generally good, we couldn’t see the nuns when they came in front of
the pit and lost some of the action when it was downstage left."
Rows L and M seem very high above the stage and isolated due to an intruding
wall at the back of the circle. The view is OK but the position does induce
vertigo in some non-treetop dwellers. On the other hand, at a mere £17.50 they are
well worth a
thought.
A reader reports,
"We were seated in Row M of the upper circle seats 43 to 46. Provided a fab view for only £25 and
I don't think it would be worth paying an extra £10 for seats 4 rows in front,
especially if those seats were towards the far sides of the theatre."
Of M41 another reader says,
"So this seat is right at the back but for me was fine, end of row. View OK.
You miss some of the higher stage elements (perhaps the opening scene) but
it doesn't distract too much (you use your imagination!) and some of the top
stairs."
with which another reader agrees,
"M49 and 50. For a back row the seats are well priced for the view which
is excellent. However, legroom is very little as my mum is 5ft 6ish and
even her legs were having trouble. The seats can be quite uncomfortable
unless you fidget. I wouldn't avoid these seats, but not put them first
choice."
as does another, for 'Sister Act' (June 2009),
"M11 and 12 for £17.50 had a clear view but were the last row of the
upper circle."
BIG BUT …Legroom here is dire. Row A is especially bad, too awful to make
it, even at restricted view price, value for money. A quirk of architecture
though means row K 19 to 36 gets a little more than the rest. No recommendation,
but if price is all and the best of a bad situation must be made, pick these. At
second to lowest price, little is lost.
A reader agrees,
"We were in the Upper Circle, K19 and K20. Excellent view, and just about enough
legroom to accommodate a 5’6” person without undue discomfort."
Another comments,
"As a six-footer I struggled for leg room in our Upper Circle seats (J 7-8) but
the view of the stage was mostly unrestricted, although if you don’t like
heights – and it all became a bit too much for one heavily pregnant lady in the
row in front of us – sit lower down."
Another in row J adds,
"Our enjoyment of "Sister Act" was somewhat marred by the dire seats. We
paid £40 to sit in the upper circle J 42 and 43. I am 5 foot 5 and my
knees were right up against the seat in front. The seats themselves are
comfortable, but the leg room is dire and all the men around us looked
like they were in agony. We had a very tall man in front of us who was
obviously uncomfortable; we could not blame him, but because he kept
moving and fidgeting this blocked our view to the stage a lot of the
time. It also meant that every time he threw himself backwards he
practically was in our laps!! I have been in plenty of upper circles but
have never had such a bad experience before. These seats were worth £20
at the absolute top price and were so uncomfortable my knees were sore.
Every single person around us was complaining about the legroom. It is a
shame because the actual seats are actually very comfortable."
One more feels it dire for those of 5ft 8'' too.
Another feels that row M offered some relief,
"My dad and I are both around 6ft tall and found the legroom to be very good.
Also, sitting here means you can lean forward for a completely head-free view
without disrupting other people."
Not something the monkey had noticed...
Notes
Total 2298 seats.
Air-conditioned auditorium.
Infrared headsets available. Occasional signed and audio described
performances. Dog sitter available. Adapted
toilet in Stalls, add a second for equality people. Wheelchairs can replace stalls seats L46, O48, Q48 and S49. Access is via a fire exit and is level
Alternatively, a ramp can be placed over the three steps to the box office, then
the user can be taken down to stalls bar level by stair-lift, then on to their
place in the auditorium. The auditorium
rake is steep, good for the view but chair users should check their brakes.
Specific information from www.seetickets.com
or 0844 412 4648 or e-mail customer.relations@rutheatres.com. A
"venue access guide" from the team who created book "Theatremonkey,
A Guide to London's West End," is available to download in PDF format
by clicking here.Booster cushions for small children can be obtained from ushers. These are
limited, and are available on a first come, first served basis - early arrival
is recommended.
Food: Ice Cream and confectionery available. Also bookable in advance (redeem
voucher on day of performance to collect) is a food container called a "Royal
Box" (nothing to do with sitting in a box in the theatre!) containing a
selection of canapés for consumption in the
bar or at your seat. A half bottle of champagne is also available as an optional
extra with the box too - for those over 18 only, subject to usual licensing
laws. Click here for more
information.
Three bars; Stalls, Dress Circle and Upper Circle.
Nine Toilets; Stalls 1 gents 2 cubicles, 1 ladies 15 cubicles; Dress Circle 1
gents 2 cubicles, 1 ladies 10 and 4 cubicles respectively; Upper Circle 2 gents
2 cubicles, 1 cubicle respectively, 2 ladies 2 cubicles and 6 cubicles
respectively.
A reader comments on comfort, one hot day in June 2010,
"The theatre, if it had any air con, should have tried putting it on as
everywhere you looked people were melting which does make it
uncomfortable; and also the toilets are in an awful state of repair,
what is it about theatre toilets??"
In the corridor leading to the advance box office is a wonderful display of
all the famous names who have played on this illustrious stage - worth a few
minutes to look at a piece of theatrical history, feels the monkey.
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