Theatre Royal, Drury Lane
Catherine Street, Covent Garden, London WC2B 5JF 020 3925 2998
- Where to buy tickets
- Best seat advice
- Seating plan/s
- Getting to the theatre
Buying tickets online
www.lwtheatres.co.uk.
The theatre group's own website provide the service for this theatre.
This site allows seat selection and provides a view of the auditorium too.
Booking fees per ticket:
No booking fees.
About the show: Disney's Frozen
Other Online Choices (with genuine S.T.A.R ticket agencies):
Ticket agencies offer an alternative way to buy tickets, with booking fees differing from those charged by the theatre box office itself. They may have seats available or special offers when theatres do not.
Ticket agency prices vary in response to theatres implementing “dynamic pricing” - which alters prices according to demand for a particular performance. Prices stated here were compiled as booking originally opened, current prices are advised at time of enquiry.
ALSO SEE Tickettree.com for great value "hotel and theatre ticket" packages.
Other Independent S.T.A.R. ticket agencies may also offer an alternative choice of seats.
TheatreMonkey Ticketshop
When the theatre does not have the tickets you desire available, it is well worth trying the Theatremonkey Ticketshop agency, telephone 020 7420 9778 (0044 207 420 9778 if calling from outside the United Kingdom), charge £26 on £130, £23 on £115, £19.90 on £99.50, £17.90 on £89.50, £15.90 on £79.50, £13.90 on £69.50, £11.90 on £59.50, £9.90 on £49.50, £7.90 on £39.50, £5.90 on £29.50, £3.75 on £25 seats booking fee per ticket - moderate by agency standards, though higher than box office fees, worth trying as they often have an alternative choice of seats available! Note that this system will confirm exact seat numbers prior to purchase. A £1.95 per booking, not per ticket, handling fee may apply on some transactions by telephone. NO handling fee applies for online purchases.
Ticketmaster
Alternatively, through Ticketmaster with a sliding scale of per ticket booking fees: £19.50 on £130, £15 on £99.50, £9.25 on £95, £19.25 on £89.50, £12 on £79.50, £10.50 on £69.50, £9 on £59.50, £7.50 on £49.50, £6 on £39.50, £3.75 on £25 seats. This system allows you to choose your own seats from the selection the company has available.
Encore Tickets
Encore Tickets (telephone 0207 400 1253 / 0044 207 400 1253 if calling from outside the United Kingdom) offers seats with a booking fee of £25 on £130, £19.50 on £99.50, £19 on £95, £17.50 on £89.50, £15.50 on £79.50, £13.50 on £69.50, £11.50 on £59.50, £9.50 on £49.50, £8.50 on £39.50, £5 on £25 seats per ticket. Discounts may also be available.
Box office information
Telephone: 020 3925 2998
Operated by the venue, Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5:30pm.
Group bookings: 020 3925 2996
Operated by the venue, Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5:30pm.
Booking fees per ticket for telephone bookings:
No booking fees.
For personal callers or by post:
Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Catherine Street, London WC2B 5JF
No booking fee for personal callers.
Special Access Needs Customers:
Wheelchair users and other registered disabled theatregoers can book their seats and enquire about concessionary prices that may be available to them on 020 3925 2998
Operated by the venue, Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5:30pm.
www.lwtheatres.co.uk is the official venue website.
Please remember that cheaper seats often do not offer the same view / location quality as top price ones, and that ticket prices are designed to reflect this difference.
Details below are based on "first impressions" in September 2021. Readers are encouraged to add information from their own visits.
An amusing thing to note is the embroidered coat-of-arms on the back of every seat. If you go to the most central pair of seats in every section of the theatre (around 26 / 27 or so) you will see that it changes to reflect whether the seat is on the "Kings" or "Princes" side.
- Stalls
- Dress Circle
- Dress Circle Boxes
- Upper Circle
- Upper Circle Boxes
- Balcony
Stalls
Layout
The Dress Circle overhangs the Stalls at row N. The Dress Circle overhang affects the view of the top of the stage from row S back. The outermost 6 seats from row U back will not see the top of the stage.
Aisles split the stalls into a centre and two side blocks. A further aisle in front of row M splits the side blocks of seats into front and rear sections.
The side blocks extend beyond the proscenium, so do not look directly at the stage opening.
There are no aisles at the outermost ends of any row. Seats O6, 7, 45 and 46 have small walls in front to close the option off entirely.
Beyond the side blocks in the front section is a space for extra “slip” seats. These are movable chairs placed one behind the other.
A noticeable rake (sloped floor to help see over rows in front) becomes steep at around row O. It ensures a good view from all seats.
Row N is on a step to help see over wheelchairs if users are seated in that space.
Seats are only off-set around 10% of their width to see between those in front.
Legroom
Good throughout the stalls for those up to 6ft (5ft 11 in row A), row L centre and M side blocks in particular.
Seats O6, 7, 45 and 46 have a small wall in front. This limits legroom for those over 5ft 5 or so in O6 and 46 across the entirety of the seat, and for half the seat width in 7 and 45.
Note that row C 12 and 39 and row M seats 10 to 17 and 35 to 42 have nothing in front of them. Seats M 15, 16, 36 and 37 have nothing in front right down the aisle to the stage.
Row N 17 and 36 have space across 90% of the seat width.
Slip seats are moveable standard chairs with good legroom for those up to 6ft 5 or so.
Choosing seats in general
The stage is at eye-level for someone 5ft 7. It is wide, and is often made narrower by a “false proscenium” – temporary extra walls surrounding the stage.
At the front, there is very little rake slope on the floor or off-set of seats, so younger children and those under 5ft 8 or so will struggle to see past any taller adult in front of them in rows A to C at least. Take the dress circle for them.
For everybody else these front three or four rows in the centre block are a wonderfully immersive experience - monkey only leaves the 'green' rating off because of the lack of rake.
Among the best seats in the house and this section are rows F to M in the centre block.
Broadening out, all other rows, right to the back, are going to offer a very decent experience away from the ends. Unlimited legroom in row M 10 to 17 and 35 to 42 is great – M 16, 17, 36 and 37 face down the aisle with no heads in view either (though those exiting early could get in the way).
Wheelchair users can choose from M 12, 16, 36 and 39. The monkey would take 16 and 36 first for a really decent view – superior to other choices in the dress and upper circles.
Row O back will notice the slope helping see over those ahead, and even those in row X at the back will feel close to the stage. It is worth taking the row behind the more expensive one each time, as you really will get the same view for less money.
All rows usually have reduced prices at the extreme ends. At the front, the outermost seats may face that blank proscenium wall, preventing anyone seeing what is going on in the nearest fifth or more of the stage. The viewing angle improves the further back you go, so take rows K forward to maximize your chances of seeing most.
From rows M to X in the side blocks, the problem is the overhang of the circle above restricting the view of the top of the stage. Skip O 6 and 46 for adding a wall / reduced legroom and take row M ends for the bonus legroom first. Then decide if you want to see more of the side of the stage or the top of it. For side, take rows X forward. For top, rows N back. The monkey would probably go N back.
A sound desk beside seats in the centre of rows U to X should not bother anybody very much. The monkey noted that with the desk behind T23 to 29 you could use a booster seat without disturbing anyone behind you.
General hazard notes
All seats at the ends of all rows do not have an aisle next to them. O6, 7, 45 and 46 are further restricted by a wall limiting legroom and view for the shortest.
All seats at the ends of rows are also under a circle overhang and may miss the top of the stage. They also may face a wall and miss the edge of the stage.
Seats are not off-set more than 10% to see between the shoulders of those in front.
Changes for the current production
The front row is A. The stage is eye-level to someone 5ft 7, children and shorter theatregoers will not see the back of it – go at least row D in that case.
The extreme ends of all rows are discounted. Avoid particularly the outermost 3 seats in all rows back to E as they face a wall. Row A in particular may feel claustrophobic. You will lose two-thirds of the stage in rows A and B, and up to a third in row C back.
Over the wall, side slip seats at fourth price may suit those happy to miss a fair amount of the stage. 6 and 7 are probably the best view as they lose a fifth of the stage. 1 and 12 are far closer but lose a third or more.
"Premium" seats have been designated in rows D (A at peak times) to N of the central stalls, spilling over into the side blocks for two seats as well. Up to you if you wish to pay more, feels the monkey. It would not take those side block premium seats except for the comfort of an aisle seat if required.
If not paying those prices, central C or O then P or (if tall enough) B and A in that order are attractive.
Prices drop to second at the outer ends of A to K – maybe K, to G in that order. Third price at row U, or down the sides there are pairs from row O back. The monkey would those in P to T or central U first. The overhang of the circle above may reduce the views of scenery tops, but nothing vital. Be aware on peak dates row U rises to top non-premium price - skip it.
Around the sound desk U 23 and 30 and W and X 22 and 31 won't notice it in view. For children at off-peak times, T23 to 29 make a very good choice as families can use a booster seat (even more than one) without disturbing anyone behind.
Seat X22 has a corner of the sound desk in view and is worth avoiding.
Dress Circle
Layout
Called the Royal Circle in this theatre.
The Upper Circle overhangs the Dress Circle at row E. It affects the view of the top of the stage is from around row J back.
The Dress Circle is split into three blocks - centre and two sides - by aisles. At the outermost ends between the stage and circle are a single row of slip seats either side.
At the back of the circle, the ends of row L 9, 10, 43 and 44 are flat spaces for either wheelchair users or with movable chairs for any audience member to use.
The front of the circle curves towards the stage and feels reasonably close to it. Even rows K and L feel fairly close.
Double height rails at the end of all aisles are well positioned for minimal impact on the view. A8 and 45, plus B 19 and 35 are the only real victims, though the seat directly behind this in rows C to G may notice it.
Legroom
Adequate everywhere up to around 5ft 9. Notes are:
Row A has enough for those up to 5ft 7 as do slip seats J 4 and 49.
Other slip seats have a little less, those up to 5ft 6 should be comfortable.
If not used for wheelchairs, L 9, 10, 43 and 44 movable chairs will be fine for anyone up to 6ft 5 or more.
Extra comfort can be had taking seats on the aisle, allowing space for one leg to move sideways. Sadly, there is no seat with nothing in front, but B19 and 34 allow one leg to move more easily, as do the seats directly behind back to row G.
Choosing seats in general
Centre Block:
Among the best seats in the house are rows B and D 20 to 34, C and E 19 to 34, and row A 19 to 24 in that order. Next best are rows F and G centre, then look at side block seats.
From row C back is where audiences will see most easily over the safety rail at the front of the circle aisle ends.
Side Blocks:
Once centre seats in rows A to G are gone, take rows B to G the first four seats nearest the centre aisle - allowing for one off if a rail may bother you, particularly in B. Then take the next two in B to G before row H back centre block, or seats in rows B to G further along to the side. If action mostly happens centre stage, then rows B to G (away from the extreme ends) get a reasonable (just about) view.
Wheelchair users have an enclosed space at seats K 9, 10, 43 and 44. It has rail in front which may bother some. Take this after the stalls ones have gone, as the view is better from downstairs. For non-wheelchair users, movable normal chairs can be placed there, and the view is superb over the heads of the entire circle to the stage.
Seats A 8 and A 45 have a safety rail in view - avoid unless priced very cheaply to compensate for it.
Slip seats are not really a bargain, and for top price special occasions are possibly best avoided, but for those willing to pay top price to just "see the show" the monkey feels many will be satisfied. Take 4 and 49, nearest the stage for the best viewing angle. From the others you will lose a quarter of the stage or more and have the front wall of the circle in view.
General hazard notes
The shallow rake may affect the view for anyone not tall enough to see over the row in fronts' heads from around row F back.
The first and last seats in the side blocks of all rows are affected slightly by the boxes projecting into the field of view a little. They may also see aisle end rails in view.
Aisle end rails clip the view of those in the seat beside the central aisle from row B back to G. It aligns about a third of the way across the stage.
Row A 8 and 45 have a rail in view.
A rail in front of the wheelchair space may bother some wheelchair users.
Changes for the current production
Central rows A to E, and four over the aisle to the sides are "premium" priced. Your call, feels the monkey, who notes there are great seats beside or behind them for less cash. Seats in central row F, or pairs beside the ones in A to E side blocks are pretty good going.
Rows K and L hit third price outside peak dates. View and distance from the stage are factors here - and they are fair (you will miss a small sequence of the show) K 18 to 34 are well worth it. At peak times top non-premium price or higher the back two rows really are not the best for the cash, it feels, but L9,10, 43 and 44 are worth it for the view - particularly for shorter theatregoers wanting a dress circle view without heads in front.
At fifth price slips A 4 and 49 are fair value. At sixth price the less picky may think about rail blighted A 8 and 45 just to be close to the stage at balcony price. Other slips perhaps are a last choice – there are more comfortable seats with a better view elsewhere.
Dress Circle Boxes
Layout
Called Royal Circle Boxes in this theatre.
Boxes B, C, D, E, F, G and H are arranged across the back of the Royal Circle.
The Royal Kings, Royal Princes, box A and box J are at the sides of the Dress Circle between it and the stage. The Royal Kings and Princes boxes are double height. A and J are beside them, on the main seating side, a metre above and slightly recessed behind the circle slip seats.
Legroom
Good as all seats are movable chairs.
Choosing seats in general
Boxes B to H:
These offer above average views of the stage, but are affected by the overhang of the Upper Circle. When sold at third price or less, they are a good value, preferred alternative to the rear stalls as they are raised above the seats in front (and are a private space away from crisp-munchers) least.
Be aware that G and H have a private corridor behind them. This interlinking means they are often kept for autistic groups as it allows easy access and privacy if required.
Royal Kings, Royal Princes, boxes A and J:
The Kings and Princes offer more of a view, with perhaps an eighth of the stage lost. Frankly, choose central seats first. If seated here, 3 and 4 have a far better view than 1 and 2.
A and J have even less of a viewing angle. When sold at third price, seats 1 is reasonable value, preferred alternative to the rear stalls. Seat 2 less so, as you will have to lean. Luckily, they are sold only in a pair, so you can fight it out with a friend.
General hazard notes
Top stage is missed from boxes B to H, side stage from Royal Kings, Royal Princes and boxes A and J.
Changes for the current production
In use, average at top price at the sides.
The side boxes will see less than usual as a false wall narrows the stage further at the edges.
Being the same price as the rear rows in front, boxes B to H are an interesting choice. The privacy and fun of a box, against being further forward and seeing a bit more under the circle overhang? Oddly, with children, the monkey may take a box. Shorter people will have nobody's head to peer over, as they are raised above that. Do consider same price row L9, 10, 43 and 44 though for a similar effect and a bit closer.
Upper Circle
Layout
Called the "Grand Circle" in this theatre.
Like the Royal Circle, the Upper Circle is split into three blocks - centre and two sides - by aisles.
A short row of slip seats either side extend from the front of the circle, down the sides of the theatre, towards the boxes.
Seats are raised on steps high enough to ensure good views. Rows A to D are on low plinths. Row K has a notable extra raise. Handsome wooden handrails guard the end of each row without affecting the view.
The balcony overhangs the Upper Circle at row F. The view of the top of the stage is affected by circle overhang from row K back.
Legroom
A massive beneficiary of the refurbishment, those up to 5ft 8 (maybe 5ft 7 in row A and the slips) at least will be comfortable.
Row K, being raised, allows extra “dangle” room for longer legs. Rows A to D are also on low plinths helping to slight effect there too.
Choosing seats in general
Rows A to D feel quite close to the stage.
Centre Block:
Best seats are rows B and D 19 to 33, C 19 to 34, and row A 19 to 34 in that order.
Row A loses marks for legroom comfort for the taller.
Moving back, the rest of the seats at least offer clear views for all but the shortest EXCEPT row E which seems lower than the rows in front.
Rows J and K of the centre block offer good value when cheaper than the row in front but having a very similar view. Take them over H and save a few pounds!
Side Blocks:
In the main blocks, as in the Royal Circle below, the first and last few seats in the side blocks of all rows offer inferior views. Anything more than four seats off the aisle has rails in view
The outermost seats, if discounted enough, are worth a glance. There are rails in view there, but there is nothing behind A 6, 7, 46 and 47, meaning you can lean to see.
Otherwise, the rest are possibly the most worth avoiding given that there is no discount now to make it bearable.
Seat E7 offers a wheelchair viewing position. Worth considering if cheaper than seats elsewhere, otherwise take stalls then dress circle positions for a superior view at the same bananas.
Slips at the edge of row A offer no view without almost falling over the edge of the circle, and even then you will see two-thirds at most. They look down at the stage through the thicket of walls and projecting boxes and do not offer much legroom either. If you must, A1 and 52 have the best of the views here.
General hazard notes
Each aisle has a double height safety rail at the end. This should not affect views too much for most.
Rails at the front of the circle are noticeable to some degree or other in all side block seats more than four seats off the centre aisle.
Row D seat 7 is haunted, but never after 6 pm and only if the theatre is full. The gentleman is an elegantly dressed, white wigged man who moves from his seat, across the gangway, and through a wall. A skeleton with a dagger in its ribs was found behind this wall in mid Victorian times. His appearance during previews is a good omen for the production.
Changes for the current production
Centre block rows A and B (C to F too weekends and peak dates), plus 4 over the aisle (A and B week days, to D weekends and peak dates) are top non-premium price. You can sit a lot closer in the stalls for the same cash, but children may appreciate the height. Also, compared to the rear stalls, they may see over heads in front more easily.
Some very tempting restricted view seats are also available at the front of the circle and up the sides. Row A to C pairs on the ends are as cheap as the front part of the balcony above. Worth a look compared to what you get for the same bananas in rows K and L.
The monkey would take L over K for being raised higher – less chance of leaners in front blocking the views.
Slips are probably best left unless very cheap and the one closest the stage are available.
Readers comments
"C28 and 29: “Disney’s Frozen” (August 2021), (Bob Pickett). Fantastic seats. Seated dead centre, exactly far enough away to take in the entire stage, yet close enough to pick up on expressions (much further back and the latter will be lost). The steepish rake means you see easily over the head of anyone in front. They’re comfortable with decent legroom. This section of the theatre has most definitely benefited from the refurbishment.
Talking about the refurbishment, come along early. Not just to make the front of house team’s life easier, but to fully appreciate the fantastic work done in refurbishing this grand theatre and restoring it to it’s full glory."
"C58: "Love Never Dies - In Concert" (August 2023). Comfy seat, decent legroom, good rake and view. The people in front will lean occasionally, but that’s just the way these seats are. You lose a sliver of the front left stage, which didn’t bother me in a concert setting (it might in a show). The ticket was discounted, but if the centre block of the Grand Circle were also discounted, I would go for that instead."
“D21 to 23: “Disney’s Frozen” (August 2021). Gorgeous in the auditorium isn’t it. Central, clear view of the whole stage, terrific sound and a great place to sit to appreciate the spectacle. Fantastic rake, it didn’t seem too far from the stage, no overhang, decent width seats and about the best Upper Circle experience we’ve had.”
"F27, 28 and 29: "Kinky Boots The Musical In Concert" (August 2022), (Bob Pickett). Very comfortable (the odd fidget but fine 90% of the time), decent legroom. Rake is quite steep so unless you get an exceptionally tall person in front you should be OK. Centre of the row, get full view of the stage. Only comment would be that at this distance, you're starting to lose expressions (I've sat in C29 and that's probably the perfect position). Would definitely book these seats again."
“H31-33: “Disney's Frozen” (August 2021). Very near the back of the circle, aisle seats (H33) clear view of the stage, good legroom. Great for appreciating the whole spectacle of this stunning show at a price which doesn't break the bank.”
Upper Circle Boxes
Layout
Called the "Grand Circle Boxes" in this theatre.
The Grand Kings, Grand Princes, box K and box L are at the sides of the Upper Circle between it and the stage. The Grand Kings and Princes boxes are double height above the Royal Kings and Princes boxes. K and L are beside them, on the main seating side, about two metres above the other boxes and slightly recessed behind the upper circle slip seats.
They are accessed at Dress Circle level.
Legroom
Good as all seats are movable chairs.
Choosing seats in general
The Kings and Princes offer far more of a view, with perhaps an eighth of the stage lost but a higher perspective angle than the boxes below them. The monkey found that seat 2 had to lean out a little to see action below the box. Seat 1 was able to lean forward and see almost the entire stage.
Nice for privacy but maybe choose central seats first if a view of the whole stage is required.
Boxes K and L have far less of a viewing angle. When sold at third price or less, they are a good value option for fun compared to other seats at similar prices elsewhere, but be prepared to lean a good way out to get more than two-thirds of the stage.
General hazard notes
You may not see much at the sides of the stage from Royal Kings, Royal Princes and boxes A and J.
There are stairs up to the seats in the Kings and Princes boxes, fairly steep. It is also a long walk to these two, though there is a disabled toilet and a unisex general bathroom very close to the box on the King's side.
Finding the seats is also amusing - follow down the side corridor and do go through the door which looks like it is "staff only."
Changes for the current production
In use, average at third price, feels the monkey. Boxes will see less than usual as a false wall narrows the stage further at the edges.
Take the Kings and Prices boxes first. The monkey found that around a fifth of the back corner of the stage on the side nearest the stage is not visible from these.
From J and K, much leaning is needed to see a maximum two thirds of the stage.
Balcony
Layout
The balcony overhangs the Upper Circle at row F.
Like the other circles the balcony is split into three blocks - centre and two sides - by aisles.
It has a stepped rake and is very high above the stage, inducing vertigo in many people.
Seats are raised on steps high enough to ensure good views. Row K in particular has an extra raise.
Handsome wooden handrails guard the end of each row without affecting the view. Double height safety rails at the end of the aisle do likewise.
Further safety "comfort" rails run across the entire length of the row in front of rows D, G and K. Intended to re-assure people afraid of heights that it is less steep than it appears. Still not one for vertigo sufferers, feels the monkey.
Legroom
Another massive beneficiary of the refurbishment, those up to 5ft 8 (maybe 5ft 6 in row A and the slips) at least will be comfortable.
Seats A9 and 43 have space for one leg to move into beside them.
Row K, being raised, allows extra “dangle” room for longer legs, plus a footrail to place them on and a rail in front too.
Choosing seats in general
Centre Block:
Best seats are rows D and F 19 to 34, and E 19 to 33. Row A loses a mark for slightly less legroom comfort and view, rows B and C because inconsiderate folk leaning forward could be a problem - though B may still be worth a try at bottom price, feels the monkey...but only if you can intimidate folk in front to behave.
The rear two rows are somewhat distant from the stage. Skip them when they are the same price as rows in front - the comparison makes them a "red" warning rating to the monkey mind. A last choice or as an option if you don't fancy paying less to lean through bars or peer round pillars. Do be aware, though, that K is comfy for many, and raised, so still worth a thought.
Side Blocks:
If priced the same, go centre block before side blocks naturally, in true Theatremonkey style!
Then choose seats as close to the centre aisle as possible, rows D to F first.
A9 and 43 are a bit of a bargain - cheap and with legroom for one leg, feels the monkey.
As in the Upper Circle, the first and last few seats in the side blocks of all rows offer grotty views and poor value. Only the extreme ends of rows to E (if discounted) are excluded - because they potentially offer a way to be closer to the stage while priced to compensate for a slightly restricted view of it.
General hazard notes
Folk leaning forward to see over these, blocking views for those behind.
Spotlights and spotlight operators are placed in the front corners of the circle, which may distract some.
Risk of vertigo.
Changes for the current production
Most of rows A to E, plus central F are fourth price. Take central D or E, or skip them and go for the four seats off the central aisles in side block F or central G.
Take row K over J if shorter, as it has a better raise for the same bottom price.
At the outermost ends, restricted view bottom price pairs in rows D to A may be worth a thought.
A9 and 43 are a bit of a bargain - cheap and with legroom for one leg, feels the monkey.
Also if single, consider the dress circle row A edges for the same cash as row E pairs. Likewise, couples may find the upper circle restricted view front corners better value for the same bananas as this pair. Families will find 4 seats together down there too.
Readers comments
“Row B: “Disney’s Frozen” (August 2021). Row B Balcony, £30 in pre opening, you lose the extended part of the stage, so you miss some but not much. Bigger problem is people in row in-front, when they lean forward, which most seem to as I guess they miss even more of the front of the stage
You lose a good 50% of the show, sometimes all. At some points it was unwatchable which is a shame. The back row of the balcony looked like it would afford a better view, although you may miss some of the effects.
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“C 8 and 9: “Disney’s Frozen” (August 2021). I'd booked the tickets what feels like years ago and then of course everything got postponed, so I know that I booked without a current seating plan to go off. However, I had assumed that the seating would start at no.1 and nos.8-9 would be more in from the edge - however the balcony seating starts with no. 8, so we were on the very edge of the balcony.
They're not terrible views, but as with any of these sorts of seats, if someone in the front row leans forward, they obstruct the view of anyone behind them. From these seats you do generally miss most of what is going on stage left due to the curve of the balcony, and unfortunately a lot happens there, as well as right to the front of the stage - luckily the 'Let It Go' sequence was unobscured as it mostly happens centre stage.
So, we missed an awful lot of the show, but I had taken a punt on the cheap £20 tickets so wasn't too annoyed - we were mostly very frustrated (as was everyone around us) with the tall young guy in row A, who missed the whole first half and then spent the 2nd half either leaning forward so no one could see or entering or exiting the auditorium and disturbing everyone each time. We have no idea why he kept being let back in.
However, the seats are comfortable and the theatre looks glorious. There is more leg room in the Drury Lane balcony than there is in the upper circle at the Victoria Palace Theatre, so that is something. Sadly our evening was mostly a concert as we missed so much and could only hear a lot of the singing, and I wouldn't sit in these seats again, but at least I know for next time!
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"F29: "Chess The Musical In Concert (August 2022). Legroom was fine and it was bang centre so the view was good, if you don’t mind the steepness and missing the front 1m or so of the actual stage. I could see all the faces but often not their lower halves when they moved right forward. Wouldn’t be able to see orchestra pit for normal performances. We missed all of the projections, which was a shame. Definitely would not recommend these seats for Frozen, although appreciate that for many the cost vs view equation is different. Definitely would not recommend these seats for 'Frozen,' although appreciate that for many the cost vs view equation is different."
Notes best seat advice
1900 seats.
Air conditioned auditorium.
Café, Afternoon Tea. Restaurant. Ice cream and confectionery available.
Two Bars.
4 steps to foyer, or level from side entrance. Passenger lift to all levels. 4 wheelchair places on row M. 1 wheelchair space dress circle row K. 1 wheelchair space upper circle row E. https://www.galapro.com/ audio enhancement via mobile phone. If you do not own compatible equipment, staff will be able to assist. Accessible toilets on stalls, dress circle and upper circle levels. Upper circle level accessible toilet is only on the “low numbers” side of the auditorium. Guide dogs are welcome and can be dog-sat with pleasure, on request. Specific details at https://thelane.co.uk/accessibility or access@lwtheatres.co.uk or by phone on 020 7557 7300 Monday to Friday, 9.30am – 5.30pm.
Toilets at all levels.
General price band information
Theatres use "dynamic pricing." Seat prices change according to demand for a particular performance. Prices below were compiled as booking originally opened. Current prices are advised at time of enquiry.
Note that there is no extra legroom in front of seats that appear to have a space, with the exception of stalls row M side block.
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By value for money:
Ratings are based on "first impressions" in September 2021. Readers are encouraged to add information from their own visits.
By price:
RUSH TICKETS: App Todaytix are offering £29.50 Rush tickets," located at venue discretion, for all performances. Released for the performance on that day, first-come, first-served. Download the App from Todaytix.
MAGICAL MONDAYS: Visit www.disneytickets.co.uk/disney-day-seats-tickets at 12 noon each Monday. £25 seats are available for all performances that week, first come, first served. Located at venue discretion. Maximum of 2 per customer.
Notes
The Dress Circle is called the "ROYAL CIRCLE" in this theatre.
The Upper Circle is called the "GRAND CIRCLE" in this theatre.
Some details WILL change. The monkey will update as available.
Please note: The seating plans are not accurate representations of the auditorium. While we try to ensure they are as close to the actual theatre plan as possible we cannot guarantee they are a true representation. Customers with specific requirements are advised to discuss these with the theatre prior to booking to avoid any confusion.
-0.1225602, 51.5128569
Nearest underground station
Covent Garden - Piccadilly Line (dark blue).
For mobility impaired audience members, the Society of London Theatre provide a "photo map" - illustrated walking route to this venue from a near landmark and also Waterloo Station (the nearest fully accessible station) on their website www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk, via the theatre's listing page on that site.
On leaving the station, turn right and walk into the large pedestrian plaza that is Covent Garden. If you see a long road with cars in front of you, wrong way.
On entering the plaza space, turn to your left and walk along the collonaded area (cut across if it is not raining!). If you see Tesco Metro Supermarket or a bank, Wrong way.
Keep walking ahead as far as the collonaded area will allow (it forms the outer part of the market Square). Follow it to the right. At the end of the building is Russell Street. Walk along Russell Street, crossing one road, until you reach a street corner with the Fortune Theatre to the left and the Drury Lane theatre ahead of you on the opposite side of the road.
Buses
6, 11, 13, 15, all stop on the Aldwych. Walk towards the Novello Theatre and walk up the street next to it, uphill, past the Duchess Theatre. Drury Lane Theatre is on the right side of this street, at the end corner. If you see the Aldwych or Lyceum Theatres, wrong way.
Taxi
A rank for Black taxis is at Charing Cross Station - a long distance from the theatre. Best chance of hailing one in the street is to walk down Catherine Street to the Strand / Aldwych.
Car park
Parker Street, under the New London Theatre. Exit the Car Park and stand with your back to the main foyer of the theatre. Cross the road ahead of you and turn to your right. The street corner is there ahead of you. If not, wrong way. At the corner of the street, Turn left into Drury Lane and walk along it. If you pass the New London Theatre, wrong way.
Walk straight on, crossing Great Queen Street. Continue down Drury Lane. Please cross to the other side of the street and continue, crossing over Broad Court and Martlett Court until you come to a four way crossroads.
Turn to your right at these crossroads. Do not cross any street. Just walk ahead down Russell Street. Cross Crown Court and continue straight on, changing to the other side of the street.
The end of this street has the Drury Lane Theatre as its corner. Turn to your left at this corner to the Drury Lane Theatre entrance. This is in Catherine Street. and walking downhill, the Duchess Theatre is halfway along on the other side of the road. If you come to Covent Garden pedestrian piazza, wrong way.
If using other car parks in London, the "Theatreland Parking Scheme" may be available. See www.q-park.co.uk for details and to book. At this car park, parking under the "Theatreland Parking Scheme" allows a 50% discount in cost for entry after 12 noon and for a maximum of 4 hours (after that parking is at the normal rate).
If you choose the "Theatreland Parking Scheme", you must book in advance at www.q-park.co.uk and have a theatre ticket stub dated for a theatre performance on the day you are parking there.
For a full list of car parks and theatres that participate in the 50% off theatreland scheme see www.q-park.co.uk.
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Readers comments
“A37: “Disney’s Frozen” (August 2021). Unfortunately my seat (the seat in front row furthest left, I think it was A37) was so bad that I was considering leaving in the interval.
You couldn't see a lot, for example I didn't see anything of Elsa during the coronation scene as it was center stage and not within my sight. I understand that some seats are "restricted view" but this was more than restricted."
“C14: “Disney’s Frozen” (August 2021). The rake isn’t fantastic so I did have a head in front of me (and I’m 6 foot!) and it is slightly to the side so there’s a few minuscule bits you don’t see thanks to cast blocking and set design, but for £20 absolutely zero complaints whatsoever!! If I was paying £90 then obviously I’d want to be in the centre, but it’s undoubtedly one of the best day seats I have ever scored."
“D34: “Disney’s Frozen” (August 2021). Wonderful view with such a low stage. Couldn't see the performers feet most of the time, but that didn't matter. Comfortable seat and good legroom. Would sit here again!”
“D38: “Disney’s Frozen” (August 2021). Legroom was acceptable. View was sometimes obstructed by the lady's head in front of me. Comfortable enough seat. Stage is low so that wasn't much of an issue.”
"G34 and 35: “Disney’s Frozen” (August 2021), (Bob Pickett). Extremely comfortable and decent room (that refurb spent the money in the right areas) with reasonable legroom. They’re aisle seats so if one of your party needs to be able to stretch out, this is useful.
This close to the stage you are looking up a little (fear not, you can still see right to the back of the stage) and have to move your head to take in the whole vista before you.
For the 'current' production (Frozen, it may never leave, it’s that good) I’d say you are too close. So much of Frozen utilises the entire stage, being able to see the whole of it in one go is beneficial. If you do sit here, fear not you still can’t see how [SPOILER ALERT] THAT costume change is done [ENDS] and the [SPOILER] incredible scene combining leads, ensemble and lights doesn’t work as well close up [ENDS]. For the money, I’d consider the Dress Circle (even the Upper Circle, but no further back than Row C) to take the full view."
"H22 and 23: “Disney’s Frozen” (August 2021). These were about perfect from a location point of view. They are far enough away from the stage that they seem completely central, and have enough height to see the actors' feet clearly (important both for the dancing and for Olaf) - but they are close enough to allow all of the action and the actors' faces to be seen clearly. Legroom was no problem for me (5' 11"). I would have liked more offset, but to be frank both the badly-behaved children and the adults-looking-after-children moved around so much during the show that more offset would have improved things only a bit. (On this second visit to the show, it was interesting to see what an improvement came from being only two rows further back and only two seats closer to the centre, even though we had absolutely nothing to complain about in respect of our seats the first time around.)"
"K33: “Disney’s Frozen” (August 2021). Really great seat. Clear view of stage. Well worth taking, despite the price (gulp). If you are taller, the legroom might be a problem but five foot me was fine. I convinced the usher to give me a booster seat. "They're for children" "But I'm really short and there's little rake in the stalls!" "OK then". Better with a booster but probably not the end of the world if I didn't."
"M35 and 36: “Disney’s Frozen” (August 2021). Our seats were in the stalls (M 35, M 36) with perfect sight of the stage (and of ushers letting latecomers in). My seat was in the stalls, Row M, seat 35. The nicely upholstered seat tilted forward as if something was broken or someone should tighten some screw. The effect was that I had to lean with my legs and feet against the floor to prevent from sliding down the seat. After 20 minutes this became very exhausting, but I did not want to spoil my daughter's experience, whose chair turned out to be perfect. My very expensive seat was definitely not worth its price."
“P14 and 15: “Disney’s Frozen The Musical” (September 2023), (Bob Pickett). £60 million spent on refurbishing this wonderful theatre saw the money used in the right places. These seats are built for a modern audience (we want to see the show… and in comfort). Very comfortable, good legroom, you should be OK to see beyond the row in front as long as no-one excessively tall sits there.
I’d try for a few seats further over (toward the central aisle) but would be more than happy to sit here again (footnote for the current production: For Frozen I’d suggest the Dress Circle - there are spectacular effects in this show that work better from a more elevated position).”