Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Theatre History

The History of Theatre Royal Drury Lane

The Theatre Royal Drury Lane has more history than any theatre still in use in Great Britain. Past productions have ranged from circus to opera. When it opened in 1663 it was one of two venues in London where drama could legally be staged and it was the first playhouse in the world to officially introduce female actors.

David Garrick, the legendary English actor successfully managed the theatre during the 18th century during which time he staged most of Shakespeare's work. Richard Sheridan bought his shares in 1776 and when the theatre was declared unsafe in 1792 he raised the phenomenal sum of £150,000 to rebuild it only for it to burn down in 1809.

Over the last century the Drury lane Theatre has become associated with some of the most lavish and exuberant musicals ever staged in London. Noel Coward's Cavalcade had a huge cast of over four hundred members. Productions have included earthquakes, avalanches, explosions, chariot races, shipwrecks and a horse race with real horses!

To retrieve a quote freephone 0800 0832 841 and quote WW059

Please note for groups of 10 rooms or more than 20 people contact us on 0871 360 1042 or complete our online group booking form

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