STALLS
The Dress Circle overhangs the stalls at row L, cutting the view of the top
of the stage from row S back.The stalls are split into front and rear sections by an aisle across the
stalls in front of row L.
The front stalls rows B to K are arranged in fan shaped, long continuous
curves. All seats are angled to face the centre of the stage. Row B is much
cheaper to allow for the high stage - these seats are NOT suitable for those
shorter than around 5ft 8 or so, the theatre say.
A reader agrees,
"the
stage is extremely high (hence cheaper front row no doubt). No
orchestral pit, either, but enough legroom so you’re not facing a wall
even though that’s what it feels like. It must be about four feet high…
I needed to ask for a booster cushion! It’s a very steep look up and I
would def. advise against front row (B) stalls.
I did notice that in C you are looking between shoulders of B but it
didn’t really matter as with such a high stage I don’t think B isn’t
even a factor - you look right over their heads to see the high stage!"
For "Jersey Boys" (February 2008) row C is cheaper too to
allow for stage height.
A reader says,
"In row B, granted,
the farther upstage the actors are, the more you lose sight of their feet and
lower legs."
another reader notes that for "Jersey Boys" those in row B can't see
the orchestra at the back of the stage, and must look sharply upwards -
but feels the price charged is very good value and that nothing of any
importance is missed by those sitting here.
Another reader feels from a previous production,
"We sat in Stalls B3 and B4 which is the front row, but it does feel like you
have your own personal orchestra, which can be slightly off putting at times, I
did notice the voices did seem quiet in this row, and sometimes it was hard to
hear what was being said... for the price row B is a very good choice."
Another reports for "Jersey Boys" (April 2009),
"We appreciate that sometimes stages can be high and we felt this at
'Jersey Boys.' We could see from the knees upward and, although we have
now seen it five times, would not sit in the front row but sit in third
row back now."
Theatremonkey regular Emma says, for "Jersey Boys" (May 2009),
"Saw the show from row B 1 and 2. These seats are only £20 due to a high
stage and had heard good things about them. Do not book these two seats.
There is a stairwell over this side of the stage which blocks everything
- I'm not kidding! The rest of the row could see fine (although you may
need a booster seat if under 5ft 8 but the ushers are very good at
giving them to you). I honestly could not see a thing unless the actors
where right down the front of the stage. I was moved after about 10
minutes, but I personally believe the theatre shouldn't sell these 2
seats. The rest of the row is fine and great value for a top show."
The monkey would welcome further comments on this one.
One reader adds, from the centre of the row,
"B15: I´ve got a stiff neck after the show, because the stage is really,
really high; and for me (5ft 5 in) it was hard to get into the show
because I couldn't follow the background action.. and I also wasn't able
to see the band on the back of the stage!
The row B seats are really cheap, and if you have no problem with not
seeing the background action then they will bring you a nice evening in
the theatre!
The actors are so close to you that you can touch their shoes or twinkle
when they come on stage with the lifting platform!"
Behind them, the ends of rows D to H are also cheaper. The monkey might avoid the outermost pairs in A to F then.
Following that, the next pair along are also cheaper - F
and G 3 and 4 maybe worth a glance at second price for those who prefer
missing a bit of stage to missing expressions. Not a particular
recommendation, more an observation, but still...
Row C and D seats have also had complaints about the high stage during
previous productions, though most people have been happy, especially in C a small
discount, notes the monkey. With row C at
third price, the monkey would have a look at C 7 to 25 for sure.
For "Jersey Boys," reader Bas says,
"Row C seats 13 and 14. The stage was VERY high and as a result the view
was restricted although we had paid full price. When the actors were in
the centre stage you could only see them from the thigh up and our necks
were craned throughout. I would suggest that if you usually like front
stalls seats that you go for row F and back as you will still be close
but see the full stage and not be looking up so much. However, on the
positive with these seats when the cast were at the front of the stage
you were incredibly close so could see all their expressions/spit etc."
Reader Ali says of C18 and 19,
"The seats themselves were
fine – good legroom, and wide enough."
Behind Ali, reader Helen says,
"Row D numbers 13 and 14 were EXCELLENT seats in the centre of the row
and we had no problems seeing the whole show."
Another reader adds at the same show,
"From
D row in the stalls I sometimes felt like the fifth member of the group
as I was swept along by the energy of the musical performances."
While another "Jersey Boys" fan contributes,
"D11: I
paid £35 through the GILT ticket offer (runs January to March each
year). I'm 6ft tall and felt I had very good leg room. Being so close to
the stage means you have to look up resulting in a slight neck ache,
plus you miss the performers feet for most of the show and if they're
further back of the stage, you miss below their knees. This didn't
bother me too much because overall the view was excellent."
Of row E, reader Richard Bradbury writes:
"We sat in stalls Row E seats 4 and 5 for the performance of "Mary Poppins" on the 24th October
2005. Tremendous view and Mary flies over you at the end plus you get to watch
all of her journey to the top of the theatre which was magical. You also get a
spoiler as to how Bert does what he does in the second half."
Reader Sam adds for "Mary Poppins",
"Stalls Seat E4. Let me first say that the theatre is absolutely beautiful. This
is very good seat, and the legroom is amazing. The best legroom I had ever. I
think it would accommodate even NBA players lol. But because the stage is quite
high you can't see the actors' feet. And it would have been better to be more
central, and little bit further back. But I felt very satisfied with it. You are
very close to the stage. The view is excellent, and you get to see the facial
expressions very well. I got this ticket for only £30, so it was a bargain, but
if you are going to pay full price then I believe the theatremonkey's assessment
is accurate."
PeaJay18 agrees,
"We were sat in row E, seats 13-16 and, as others have stated, the legroom is
more than generous. The staggered seating meant no one is sat directly in front
of you. My only complaint (and it's minor one) was being that close to the stage
meant that some of the effects lost a bit of their impact as you could see how
they were achieved."
For "Jersey Boys," reader Lizzie opines,
"Row E of the Stalls and the view of the stage was very good - we could
really see the whites of their eyes. However personally I would have
preferred to have been a few rows back as you do tend to look up most of
the time and some parts of the set were a little more difficult to see
being low down. Having seen 'Mary Poppins' in the Dress Circle (Row E) I
would think this would be a good view too for this show."
another reader comments of "Mary Poppins" before the current production,
"Have now seen the show three times, once in the Dress Circle (which was OK) and
twice in the stalls, must agree that the stalls are definitely the best value
for money. We sat in row D in the stalls on the first occasion, and row E on the
second. Certainly row F was the better of the two as it seemed to have more leg
room and the view of the stage was far better."
The rake becomes noticeable at row F and theatremonkey nominates top price
rows F to K seats 5 to 28 as best, but all in theses rows offer fair value.
Reader Celia Robinson felt that:
"We were in seats F15 to 21 in the stalls, very good view of characters but
ideally would have benefited from being three or four rows back to be
higher and see the stage itself plus getting a better overall view of some of
the special effects."
The monkey hadn't noticed this, but some readers with younger children might
find the comment of interest.
Reader Dave Butterfield does so,
"Our seats...were superb, stalls row F 26, 27 and 28.
Ideally I would possibly have been just one row further back but really you do not miss a trick – and there are many! I’m 6ft 2 with an accompanying leg length. Leg room was found to be acceptable although not overly generous, the pitch sufficient to allow an averagely sized under ten a good view, possibly with the aid of the provided (free) booster seats."
Another reader says:
"We sat in Row F of the stalls numbers 15 - 18 and that was the most fantastic
position (and bags of leg-room - enough for people to come past without having
to turn sideways and crunch up against the seat) not too close to the stage but
close enough to see all the expressions and sweat!"
Reader Silvia is another row F fan:
"We sat in row F seats 24, 25 and 26 of the stalls and we could see it
perfectly; my 3 years old daughter too."
A row back, another reader opines,
"G18: Also a great seat; but if paying full price I would not want to be
much closer to the stage, due to the height of it. For the access
(disabled) rate of £20 it was a great seat."
From the same seat, another reader adds,
"G18 and 19: Another excellent seat, plenty of leg room, comfy and great
for seeing facial expressions. On another visit I sat in J28 of the
stalls, these are right next to the premium seats. I do not consider the
premium seats to be worth it. Book early enough and get close to them if
you can."
In that same row, reader Avril says,
"We were in Stalls row G seats 21 to 23 and had an excellent view.
Plenty of leg room and heads level with the actors, so no stiff necks."
Monkey regular seat connoisseur James says, of two separate visits,
"Sat in Stalls H8 to H11 for “Jersey Boys”. The sound is good from here
and a fair rake ensures a good view. However, I think it’s best sitting
a little further back here as it’s a big stage and I felt a bit too
close to fully take it in properly."
and later,
"Sat in J26 and J27 for “Jersey Boys”. Fantastic seats! Obviously it
would have been better to be slightly more central but they didn’t feel
too side on and it’s amazing how close to the stage row J seems. The
sound was excellent from here too."
later still, he adds,
"Sat in Stalls H22 to 25 and J22 to 25 for “Jersey
Boys”. Everyone in the group said the seats were fantastic – close
enough to see all facial expressions and great sound from here too."
Another reader in row H for the same show adds,
"H 9 and 10: Absolutely out of this world - bang on view and for this
show I would highly recommend those particular seats. It felt as if the
performers were looking right at us. WOW!"
while another speaks up for row J too,
"J 28: I was surprised at how close I seemed to be to the stage - more than I
would have expected in J row, and the rake was good at that point as well."
as does another, who got his seat cheaply,
"J 7: Fantastic view. The time previous I was second off back row in the
upper circle and you miss out on all the facial expressions and
intimacy. Much better seeing it from the stalls."
Reader Steven confirms for "Jersey Boys,"
"Row J: bang in the middle has a perfect view of everything. So, first
of all, go for this row if you can; you are not too close to the stage
but not too far away that you can see all the facial expressions etc."
Reader Nicola Bourne says of "Jersey Boys,"
"Row K: I had originally booked stalls row E but after reading that the
first few rows had restricted view courtesy of a very high stage, I
amended these seats to row K (premium seats) as I did not want to risk
missing anything. Central seats in this row did provide the perfect
view. However, once in the theatre, I realised that row E may have been
OK after all. Certainly row F would have been fine and I’m only 5ft 1”!
I would not want to sit any further forward of row E though."
The rear stalls row L to ZB are split into centre and two side blocks by
aisles.
The centre block rows L to N offer fair value - equal to the front block. Row
L has aisle space in front of the
seats. Rows O to T are just acceptable
at the price, while rows U to X at top price are further from the stage. For
"Jersey Boys," the top of the stage is cut off, but nothing is missed. Just
enough to pull them off "avoid" to the monkey mind.
In row L, a reader says,
"It helped being in the centre of row L which meant we had no seats in
front of us so I could really stretch out and this time there was no
obstruction from large heads or horribly annoying smells of disgusting
savoury snacks. The old diaphragm did take a bit of a pummelling at
times from the drumming which is definitely louder in row L than it was
in row V, where I sat last time, but it was really only on two numbers."
The central seats (L 8 to 21 and M9 to 21) are at "premium price" -
your choice, feels the monkey. At weekends H, J and 9 to 26 join them
and on Saturday Evenings, extra 'premium' seats are added in stalls row
F 11 to 20 and G 10 to 21 too. Again, your choice, feels the monkey.
Further along the row, another reports,
"We sat in L26 and 27 for "Jersey Boys" - and had a good view of the
stage. Sight lines at seat 27 were reasonable but not the best - missed
the video screens on stage right and a little bit of the action that
went on stage right upstage. Sight lines from seat 26 were fine.
Leg room very good because of the aisle in front (main reason for
choosing this row). However the seats are very low for some reason, and
if you pull your legs in - your knees end up near your ears (perhaps
that's a little bit exaggerated - but you know what I mean). So although
you can stretch out - actually it wasn't that comfortable!
Note also that these seats are right in front of the loudspeakers - and
I would recommend ear-plugs if you sit here - 'Jersey Boys' is a very
loud show!
There is also a rather funny aisle that runs down the side of the
auditorium that you haven't shown on your plan."
The aisle is a legacy of when the theatre was made narrower, thinks
the monkey - who would welcome expert comment on this.
A reader comments on "Mary Poppins":
"Row M seat 3 (right side facing stage) was an excellent seat for 98% of the show, but NOT AT ALL for the fantastic final scene
- I was sad that I had only had a brief glimpse of this special effect, and had to crane my neck for that.
It seems clear to me that the best seats for this show are Stalls through row J, preferably center and left sides facing stage, and any of the first few rows of the Dress
Circle".
Reader Thom Sellwood says,
"P18 in the stalls offers fantastic view and you're far enough away from
the stage to save your ear drums from getting a beating!"
Reader J Denton says,
"I managed to get seat P33 in the stalls (a side-seat with a reasonably
good view - only the top left corner of the stage was obscured by the
boxes)."
From row T a reader says,
"We were in the stalls row T as far to the left as you can get, slight
restricted view but didn't spoilt what was the most fantastic show."
In row W for "Jersey Boys" another comments,
"W10: I initially thought might be a disappointment, but it was fine. I
had a perfect view of the stage, there was no overhang from the circle
and the sound balance was excellent."
Reader Richard Bradbury defends the row too,
"We sat in stalls seats Y8,
9 and 10. Excellent seats, great view of all the stage, no problems with
disturbance from the sound desk and good leg room."
Another reader agreeing with,
"W10 and W11: After much deliberation and reading the reviews of seats
on here, we booked these. The view from here was perfect, the sound,
although a little loud at times, was good and the legroom was great."
Reader Sam backs up the defence a couple of rows back, saying for "Jersey Boys,"
"Y24 and Y25: Gave us a really good view and the leg room was more than
sufficient."
Y is a bit expensive at top price, though, the monkey feels.
At second price Monday to Thursday rows Z to ZB offers just adequate value and avoids the neck
ache of similar priced C and D; try row L seats 8
to 22 of the Dress Circle first at the same cost. The stage is again a long way
back for the money.
At weekends, rows Y and Z at the sides, and ZA in the centre rise to
top price (only seat 18, by the sound desk, is cheaper then). The monkey would skip ZA, and take the outermost seats in Y
and Z last. There isn't a problem with any of them exactly, but there
are better seats at the same price further forward, it feels.
A sound desk in the rear stalls has in the past rendered row Y 11 to
21, Z 19 and 20, ZA 19 and 20 and ZB 18 and 19 less desirable as noise can be
experienced during the show. ZA18 (except at Weekend performances) is not discounted to allow for
desk intrusiveness. Of other seats, only purists will worry, though. ZB17 is the
only exception as it is always second price and without a further discount -
thus second choice for purists particularly, feels the monkey.
In the side blocks rows L to N are as acceptable as centre block seats.
Comments about rows O to ZB in the centre block also apply to side block seats,
with the added advice to take the first and last four seats in the side blocks
from row O back last, as the architecture make these seats seem isolated from the
stage action.
As usual with side block seats, insist on the centre block at the same price
first. It is your money so get the best value you can from it.
Row V for "Jersey Boys" isn't bad, though, as a reader says,
"I thought seats V 3 and 4 might not be very good; there was, however,
no problem at all . Some of the drumming affects your diaphragm so I
feel this is one show where being further back is not a bad place to be.
There was ample leg room and I am 6' 2". I did however have a 20 stone
man mountain with a head the size of a medicine ball in front of me
which would have been ok if he hadn't inclined his head all the time to
the right (fortunately he moved one seat to the right in the second half
and I had a perfect view )."
Legroom is good in all seats, best in row L which has an aisle in front -
though a reader felt the seats being low made it less comfortable. A
reader also felt row E had a little extra too. Reader Dave Butterfield notes of
row F: " I’m 6ft 2 with an accompanying leg length. Leg room was found to be acceptable although not overly
generous."
Stalls Boxes
Two at the rear of the stalls. Seat 4 each.
These suffer restricted views of the top of the stage. Expensive, when sold
at top price, feels the monkey.
DRESS CIRCLE
The Upper Circle overhangs the Dress Circle at row F. It restricts the view
of the top of the stage from row K, and is particularly restricting in rows N
and O.
The Dress Circle is split into front and rear sections by an aisle in front
of row F.
The front section is split into two blocks by a central aisle. Choose row B
first, then C, D and E. Ignore row A for having very poor legroom, despite a
slightly lower price in some seats, and also refuse the first and last six seats
in each row for being too close to the walls of the theatre to have a viewing
angle justifying their price - even discounted.
Wheelchair users may either park in a box, or transfer to row A. See notes.
A reader notes that the front row of the dress circle should be avoided
not just for poor leg room, but also because the wall in front seems to be
unusually high, meaning you have to sit bolt upright to see the whole stage. The
reader feels this is worth noting for shorter folk and those with children
especially, who may choose the front row if the poor legroom is not a
consideration. The box office now caution that those under 5ft 3 tall should not
sit here. Another problem is that equipment is bolted to the front of the circle
- one or two shorter people may find this irritates too.
Reader Lizzie agrees:
"We thought the seats in the circle were very good although don’t sit in the
front row if you are not tall as there is a handrail and it can make viewing
difficult – need to be about 4 rows back, but the circle is very good to view
the fantastic special effects"
A row behind, reader Paul Jones says,
"We were in Row B of the Dress Circle seats 8/9/10/11 and had an
excellent view. Booster seats were given out to children in rows A and F
first as they had the handrail issue, but we got given one just before
the performance began which helped with our younger child. Had a little
trouble with the 'leaners' in Row A but they got tired of leaning after
a while."
Back another row, Monkey seat reader and reporter extraordinaire
James says,
"Sat in Dress Circle C12 and C13 for “Jersey Boys”. The sound is
excellent from here and the view is good, but not being particularly
tall I would still have preferred to be a row back. I also think that as
the theatre is so big you feel quite a way from the stage in the Dress
Circle and perhaps it’s a show that might be best seen from the Stalls."
Reader Hannah comments,
"We were sat in the circle C 20, 21, 22 which were really good seats. If people
in front lean forward they can come into your sightline slightly, but it wasn't
really a problem. You get a really good overview of the action, especially as a
lot of it happens up high on the rooftop set. Having said that, I would have
chosen to sit in the stalls over the circle, but that is personal preference and
no reflection on the quality of the seats."
The central seats (B and C 11 to 22) are at "premium price" - your choice, feels the monkey.
At weekends rows B and C 9, 10, 23, 24, plus row D 9 to 24 also get the
"premium" treatment at some performances. Totally your choice, feels the
monkey.
At "Jersey Boys," reader Frank opines,
"D14 to 17: We found the music volume OK. from here, with excellent
acoustics. I thought the central aisle rail to our front left may have
restricted some views, but all the action takes place in the
centre/back/right of the stage, so it wasn't a problem. We also found
legroom was OK. - I'm 5ft 10ins and didn't have to turn my legs to the
side; my friend is 6ft 3ins so he sat in the aisle seat (D17) and didn't
complain!"
Reader James F comments for "Jersey Boys":
"I sat in E 13 and 14, and some things were slightly obstructed (e.g.
poles, front of the stage, back of the stage) and I’m sure a stalls seat
would offer a better view."
He means the set design as viewed from there, not physical
obstructions in the auditorium, the monkey notes.
Another reader, also called James, comments:
"Sat in Dress Circle seats E15 to E17 for "Jersey Boys". Definitely
better in the Stalls. View is good but I wouldn't say excellent. Sound
is better downstairs too."
The rear section of the circle is split into a central and two side blocks by
aisles. A bar runs across row F, which may bother some shorter people, though
the monkey has had no negative reports.
In the central section row F seats 16 to 18 have a view down the centre
aisle of the block in front - bars are either side of these seats, and the aisle
safety rail is in view (though not a problem to any except the purists. The rest of the central block of row F is
acceptable if a Dress Circle seat is required and the front rows are full.
Reader Jazz agrees:
"row F of the dress circle...very good view...especially for the flying
scenes!!"
Rows
G to K should be chosen only if stalls rows B to T are unavailable, as they
offer less value for money.
Reader Tamara endorses this:
"Sat dress circle row G centre block, poor value for money in my opinion"
Reader Frances disagrees:
"We sat in the Dress Circle row G, centre block. When I booked the tickets I
looked on Theatremonkey and saw that they were supposedly 'OK' seats, I came
back on this site a few days before the show and saw what Tamara had written
about those very seats..."Poor value for money in my opinion"...This worried me,
expecting my friends to moan at me when we got to the theatre only to be put in
"poor value" seats. But we all thought they were good seats with a decent view
of the whole stage. So for those worried about booking seats in Dress Circle,
row G, don't be! We could see straight down the centre of the stage as we were
in the middle of the row (seats 15 to 19), the leg room was a bit better than I
expected but I suppose a taller person would disagree. The only annoying thing
was the very tall Dad sat in front of me! Luckily I swapped with a friend at the
interval!"
From row K, a reader reports,
"K16 and K17: I had my doubts sitting so far back in the Circle but we
found that the seats were perfect. We didn't feel far back from the
stage, none of the action was missed, none of the stage was cut off. I
was concerned about legroom after reading some Theatremonkey reviews,
but it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be (we were also able to turn
our legs to the side as our row was pretty much empty)."
Row L at second price is preferable to the stalls, as it feels closer to the
stage for the same money. Row M offers similar value but the rake begins to make
it seem farther away then they actually are. Theatremonkey knows it is only a
difference of a few feet, but theatre rakes are strange things.
Seats in the side blocks of the rear circle all feel stuck in a corner and
make theatremonkey feel utterly lonely and unloved, aaaah. Take rows F and G
seats 5 to 8 and 25 to 28 / H to J 4 to 7 and 26 to 29 if you must and better stuff has gone, otherwise
insist on centre block seats for much better value for your hard earned cash.
Also consider L 3 to 6 and 25 to 28 for less cash.
Reader Alan felt, "Row J 28 and 29 Dress Circle was just perfect,"
using a Senior Citizen discounted rate.
Rows N and O are set in an alcove at the back of the theatre and is good for
courting couples who are not particularly interested in the show or those with
"kids from hell" who want a segregation unit for them. The armrests
between each pair of seats should be removed in this monkey's opinion to allow
either canoodle access...or easy swiping for parents...
Come to think of it, the former could turn into the parents of the latter if
they are not too careful in these rows!
Reader RH says,
"We sat in row N of the Dress Circle which the theatre monkey dismisses
in its reviews but we all felt that they were bargain seats. They are
half the price of seats three rows in front and although the top of the
stage is cut off, you rarely miss much action. We didn't feel as far
back as we thought we would and the voices carried very clearly. Would
definitely recommend these seats as a cheaper alternative."
Legroom is barely adequate in all rows especially row A, which should be
avoided by anyone who values their circulation below the waist. The lowest
numbers of row M have a little more legroom, according to the theatre.
Dress Circle Loges
A unique feature of this theatre. The lodges are five short rows of
seats projecting on tiered ledges from the front corners of the Dress Circle.
Each row is self-contained like a private box, enclosed by walls and metal rails.
The view from these seats is adequate but "side on" to the stage
with bars in view for many.
These rows can be labelled "A, B and C" rather than 1, 2, 3 on some plans.
A reader says,
"Sat in Loge D to the right of the stage (4 seater), Dress Circle.
Fantastic view of the action, feels very private but a clear view of the stage.
I sat in the seat nearest the wall therefore had a very slight restriction of
view on the right hand corner but this was noticeable only on one or two
occasions, and being so close to the action this didn't matter. The others in
the seats further along had no such problem. This is a superb position for the
final flypast. Best of all there was no one behind my seat to moan about the
tall person in front! Definitely worth full price, I would highly recommend
sitting here."
A later visit, to a different show, brought the additional comment,
"Sat in Loge 5 seats 1 and 2 - a little to the side but great view,
except for when the people in Loge 4 leaned forward. Good legroom (This
is important). However, for 'Mary Poppins' I said that Loges 3 and 4
were well worth the money and should be Green seats - for 'Jersey Boys,'
I would say Loge 5 is good, but not outstanding. The band sequences are
very much directed at the middle stalls. Still worthy of top price
without a doubt though. Seats 3 and 4 however, having no obstruction in
front, would be fantastic."
A young reader says,
"Loge 3 seat 1 - a stunning location to see the show."
From Loge 8, regular theatremonkey reader Steph Nicholls opines,
"We were really happy with the position, the view was off to the
left-hand side of the stage (obviously), but nothing was obscured apart
from some of the left-hand projection screen on which nothing vital was
shown anyway."
Another reader adds,
"Lodge 8 seat 1: This is the seat nearest the central wall. I paid £20
for the seat and the view was good (not great) as some of the video
screen sequences were missing, only a minor detail though. However a
couple of problems with this seat, firstly leg room is pretty non
existent here which doesn't help me being 6 foot tall, also you feel
very out of the action, something you don't feel in the stalls. I would
avoid the loges and go for front stalls given the choice."
Legroom is barely adequate in all seats.
Dress Circle Boxes
Three each side of the stage at Dress Circle level and between Dress and
Upper Circle level. Online booking systems may list the boxes as "CBA"
and "CBB" - "Circle Box 1" and "Circle Box 2";
"SBA" and "SBB" - "Slip Box 1" and "Slip Box
2"; and "GBA" and "GBB" - "Grand Circle Box
1" and "Grand Circle Box 2". This is to avoid confusion between
the box and the seat numbers, apparently!
Boxes at the side of the stage offer an angled view of the action with the
closest side not visible. Choose upper level over stalls as the extra height
helps the view, but take these seats as a secondary choice. The box office feel them superior to the last row of the Dress Circle,
but they are top price....many are impressed by them, though.
Slip seats:
Not bad for the view and price. Cheaper than other side boxes and the theatre
are fans of these... worth a thought...
A reader says,
"Dress Circle Slips at £20 each (last minute discount). What fantastic
value, yes you have to lean forward slightly but the view of the stage
is unobstructed, you get great space and you also get a real feel for
how the audience are responding to the show."
Another reader says of the more expensive ones,
"We had the slip box seats for £42.50, they were great seats. You have
to lean over, but you can see everything - a great view and great
legroom."
UPPER CIRCLE
Called the GRAND CIRCLE in this theatre.
This circle is divided into front and rear sections by an aisle in front of
most of row H. Both sections are split into centre and two side blocks by
aisles.
In the front section all seats in all blocks have a clear view of the stage
with only Rows A to F seats 1 to 4 and 34 to 37 worth avoiding for being to
close to the edges of the circle to have a comfortable viewing angle. Pick row B
first, then C to E, then A (if legroom is no worry) then F. Note also that
during the week, side blocks are slightly cheaper. Worth a look, feels the
monkey, bearing in mind to take seats a couple off the aisle to avoid aisle end
rail intrusion.
Monday to Thursday, when row A is top price in both centre and side
blocks, the monkey would avoid side blocks as you are paying for a less
central view as well as less legroom.
Reader Stephen comments,
"We were in Upper Circle row C seats 15 and 16, a good central view of the stage."
Regular theatremonkey contributor Chris May backs up this opinion:
"Upper Circle C19, for the price it was a
wonderful seat, clear view of the whole stage and I think that nothing was
missed at the top of the rear of the stage, maybe a projected moon or two,
leg room ain't that bad either".
as does another for "Mary Poppins,"
"I sat in D 15 the 1st act, and then I saw the friend I was supposed to meet at
6:30 during the interval, so I moved to B 27 to sit with her. Both of them were
great seats - I could see everything, even the INCREDIBLE moment in Step in
Time, and heard everything wonderfully. I wish I could've seen facial
expressions a little more, but a pair of binoculars at 50p made that possible."
Another reader, Ken, felt:
"Our seats were in the Upper Circle, not cheap at £37.50 each.
Usual limited legroom, even for a short person like me... the sound quality in the Upper Circle was quite poor with a lot of
words disappearing, especially at the start. They made Mary Poppins fly, so why didn't they fly speakers
for the (not) cheap seats."
A comment another reader makes from the cheapest seats at the back, too,
notes the monkey (see further on, below).
Row G appears to have been added to the back of the central block at the last
minute where an aisle was meant to be. The view is fine but everybody has to
clamber over you to get to his or her own seat. At current prices, on weekdays
these are fair value - avoid the seats at top price on weekends, perhaps...
...In the rear section central block rows H back centre block are
cheaper, fair value.
A reader reports that for "Mary Poppins":
"We were sat in Row H of the Grand Circle and the seats were perfect - the
little one is scared of heights and having the rail there made her feel
ok about the height, but didn't restrict the view at all."
Over the aisle in the side blocks are cheaper still for midweek performances, and worthwhile, the monkey feels.
If cheaper, row F is interesting, otherwise, it would take H
and J 4 to 6 and 26 to 28 before rows M and N at the same price on these
days.
A reader agrees,
"We sat in seats H4, H5, H6 and H7 in the Upper Circle and for just £25 each they
were a bargain. We had a total clear view of the stage. The only
slight problem was for my younger sister. She is 7 and had problems seeing
over the safety bar at first, but a booster cushion greatly helped her to
see better, so they are great seats but if you have younger children it's
best to get them a booster seat. (The woman who gave it to us said they only
had 10 for the whole Upper Circle so its best to get them quick.)
Reader Emma opines, for "Jersey Boys" (Thursday 16th April 2009),
"H 6 and 7 at £21.50 each: Loved these seats. Sold at a 'restricted
view' price because you have to lean over the safety bar to see
correctly (and there is a moment, lasting no longer than 1 minute where
you can't see the 'Four Seasons' heads). However I found them very
respectable for the price. Yes, you are a long way back, but I still
loved the show and had a wonderful night. I would sit here again if I
was looking for a low budget night at the theatre. Good value for
money."
Further over, though, another reader warns for "Jersey Boys"
(Thursday 16th April 2009),
"H 1 and 2. The view is fine (although seat 1 only for tall people due
to diagonal safety bar) but too far away. Before the show started an
usher happily moved us to seats E1 and 2. Just 3 rows further forward
made such a difference in view, we felt like we were 100m nearer. At
6ft2 I could not have sat in the grand circle except in an aisle seat as
the leg room is non existent in nearly all seats. Cheap tickets up here
will not disappoint as long as you are in A, B, C, D, E or F. Any
further back and you will regret it."
On weekends for "Jersey Boys" H1 and 31, plus J and K 7 and 25 are
cheaper. A possible way for singles to get nearer the front if they
don't mind looking over a rail, feels the monkey.
From row K, a reader says,
"K8 to K11: I agree with other reviewers about the height and leg room,
walking in at the back you really want to hold on to something as you
walk down to your seats.
Regarding the view - yes it was high, but you could see the whole stage
all the time. Only bits we couldn't see was the drummer's head
occasionally but that doesn't matter anyway.
Legroom is certainly an issue up there. Fortunately we had nobody in
front of us, but if we did, I could imagine us getting very
uncomfortable as there really was nowhere to move your feet.
The sound was fine, we could hear everything clearly. For £35 ("Jersey
Boys"), the seats were just about ok for the money."
A reader in L comments,
"Row L seats 14 to 18. These were absolutely amazing but I'm not sure
about the price. It was a bit too expensive as you are so high at.
However the seats in front are obstructed by a bar so I think out of the
ones at £30, these are the best. Being so high you could see quite a lot
of detail. The seats are comfortable, but little legroom!"
Another reader agrees,
"L 12, 13 and 14: Although it was not a problem for me, I would not
advise the Grand Circle for those who have difficulty in walking up
stairs. There seemed to be an awful lot of them to navigate before you
finally reach the top. At times it felt like we were climbing the Tower
of Babel! The box office did point out this issue but assured us that
there were other theatres in London with higher upper circles.
The view of the stage is unobstructed; but due to the height of the
Grand Circle and the position of row L, the view is distant. I consider
myself to have very good eyesight, but from this seat I could not see
facial expressions clearly, even with the binoculars. In addition, at
5ft 8” I found space to be very tight and by the end of Act 1 was
extremely uncomfortable and was beginning to get ‘pins and needles’. One
minor distraction when sitting here are the spotlight beams. When any of
the action takes place at the front of the stage, the beams pass very
close over your head. I was at times quiet tempted to put my hand up
into the beam and do some shadow puppetry. On the plus side, the sound
was very good and I could here every word that was sung or spoken.
Overall the seat wasn’t too bad (I have sat in worse) but considering
that the seats behind us were only £20 for almost the same view and
issues, I wish we had gone for those or tried to have got seats further
forward for the same price that we paid for in row L. Vertigo sufferers
might also wish to consider paying a little bit more to sit lower down
in the dress circle or stalls."
Rows M and N are a very long way from the stage. For "Jersey Boys" the theatre feel row M 1 to 19 offer a
particularly good view for the money - the monkey agrees.
Monkey regular and reliable seating connoisseur Will Cooper reports,
"We were seated in row M seats 15 and 16 of the Upper/Grand Circle and found
the view to be comparable to the cheap and cheerful non-restricted seats in any of the larger West End playhouses, although at £25 these are some of the
most expensive furthest-from-stage tickets in London. The sound quality for
"Mary Poppins" was not great, however."
In the same row for "Jersey Boys," reader Taljaard says,
"M6: For £20. For the second to back row in the theatre, I thought it
was good value and there were no obstructions although you do feel a bit
detached from the action. Quality sound system. What's not to like?
Row L seats 1, 2, 34 and 35 are above stairwells with a wall in front.
Cheapest tickets in the house as they are restricted view. Take these before row
AA as the view is marginally better - but they are NO bargain for this show.
Seats B 10 and 28, C 10 and 28, J 7 and 25 and K 7 and 25 are also restricted
view, but more expensive. Perhaps try the Dress Circle lodges or even stalls
"behind the conductor" if you want to miss the edges / middle of the
show respectively, or wish to be closer to the stage for the same money. Monday
to Thursday, when they are not discounted, the monkey would skip them unless an
aisle seat is required.
Readers Colin and Asa McCarthy-Burton comment:
"We were sitting in the Upper Circle and felt that the prices paid for our
seats were, like the Upper Circle, a little too steep."
Row AA slip seats 1 to 5 and BB slip seats 6 to 10 are at the edges of the Upper Circle. Designated
restricted view because less than half the stage is visible as you peer around
the walls of the theatre. A "take only if you need to see the show and everything else is sold"
option. The theatre report those in AA 1 and 2 and BB 9 and 10 in particular
will peer through the lighting rig.
Legroom is very poor in all seats, and exceptionally bad in row A. Reader
Adrian G of Surrey says,
"Having read the reviews, I was keen to see Mary Poppins. Unfortunately, against
my better judgement, I bought seats in the Grand (aka Upper) Circle.
Consequently, this review is mainly about discomfort! I am 6 ft 3, and these
seats were utterly inadequate, with the smallest amount of legroom I have yet
encountered in any theatre. My feet were pinned against the back of the seat in
front, and due to the steep rake of the seating, my knees entered the airspace
around the heads of two guys in front of me. They were understanding, since they
were in the same boat. Even before the show started, I was worried about getting
muscle spasm or cramp.
After about 40 minutes, I was in so much discomfort, I was just willing time on,
and couldn’t concentrate. By the penultimate act, where the toys come alive, I
didn’t even notice, because cramp was starting in my left hamstring, and I just
wanted to get out, before my leg locked up fully. I only just kept the cramp at
bay until the end of the first half.
I concluded that I could not endure the second part of the show. We were going
to leave, but I approached one of the senior staff at the venue. (Alas, I did
not get his name). Without hesitation he offered me an ushers seat in the stalls
for the second half. I took it!
Although I had slightly limited viewing, I was now able to enjoy the show.
Conclusion; If you are much over 5ft 8, don’t even consider the Grand circle.
The stalls give very generous legroom, and the view is far superior."
Another reader adds,
"At 6ft2 I could not have sat in the grand circle except in an aisle
seat as the leg room is non existent in nearly all seats."
Reader Jo comments,
"We were in A20 and A21 of the Grand (upper) Circle and in spite of other
comments about poor legroom, we were pleasantly surprised. At 5’ 6” and 5’ 9”
respectively this can be a problem but not here. Seats were very comfortable and
we had an excellent view of the whole stage. Sound was also fine."
to balance the views.
Notes
Total 1619 seats. Oddly, the monkey made it 1630 though!
Air-conditioned auditorium.
Infrared loop with headsets available. Occasional audio described and signed
performances. Guide dog sitter available if booked in advance. Adapted WC in foyer. Access for
wheelchairs via fire exit in Greek Street (so you use the foyer entrance for the
toilet, but not to see the show - a quirk of architecture!). Choice of staying
with your chair and using a box in the circle, or moving to a seat in row A.
Fuller details
www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk,
or call the theatre group dedicated phoneline on 0844 482 5137. The "registered disabled"
concessionary price policy here is generally (though can be subject to change)
for a quota of accessible best seats to be made available at the lowest regular
price charged. This quota is increased for designated performances such as
signed / audio interpreted. Check with the box office at time of booking. 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.
No food except Ice cream and confectionery. Bar snacks also available.
Free cast lists are available in the foyer. This saves having to buy an
expensive programme.
Four bars; two Stalls, one Dress Circle, and one Upper Circle.
7 toilets in all; Foyer 1 ladies 4 cubicles, 1 unisex disabled; Stalls 1
gents 2 cubicles, 1 ladies 7 cubicles; Dress Circle 1 gents 1 cubicle; Upper
Circle 1 gents 1 cubicle, 1 ladies 3 cubicles.
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