We’ve got a pretty impressive theatrical offering here in London, don’t you think? From big, fancy auditoriums to teeny-tiny black-box rooms; there’s certainly no shortage of places to watch talented thespians take to the stage in the capital. But if it’s the oldest theatre in town that you’re looking for; just one pioneering playhouse reigns supreme.
Having been showing Londoners a good time for almost four centuries, Theatre Royal Drury Lane is not just the oldest theatre in London. It also happens to be the oldest theatre in the world that’s still in continuous use. Not a bad accolade to hold, hey? Dating all the way back to 1663, this legendary London locale sure does have some fascinating stories to tell. So, take your seats, folks – let’s journey back to where it all began.
The history of Theatre Royal Drury Lane
With it’s rather lengthy life-span, the history of Theatre Royal Drury Lane is extensive, to say the least. But I’m going to try and summarise it for you. The theatre’s earliest building was constructed in 1663 by Thomas Killigrew under a Royal Charter from King Charles II. Much smaller than the building we know today, the entirety of the original theatre was only the size of the present day venue’s stage. So it’s certainly come a long way in the past 360 years.
The original building was destroyed in a fire in 1672, and the second site swiftly opened its doors in 1674. The second edition of Theatre Royal Drury Lane survived far longer than its predecessor, remaining in operation for 117 years. As the theatre became more popular, however, those in charge decided to demolish the building to make way for a much larger structure (one that could seat a whopping 3600 people) that landed on the site in 1794.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Third time lucky, right? Unfortunately not. Despite the third version of the theatre installing the world’s very first safety curtain, it still managed to burn down in another fire not too long after. But from its ashes is where the current building enters the story. The Theatre Royal Drury Lane that stands proudly in Covent Garden today was designed by Benjamin Wyatt, and has truly stood the test of time. Built in 1812, the theatre still boasts many of its original features, and has earnt itself Grade I listed status.
Theatrical royalty (and actual royalty, for that matter) has been gracing the space for many years, and the theatre has seen some of London’s most ambitious and spectacular shows take to the stage. From Oklahoma and Oliver! to Carousel and A Chorus Line; Theatre Royal Drury Lane has continued to lead the way in the world of West End theatre. Most recently it was home to Frozen the Musical, and last month saw the long-awaited arrival of Disney’s Hercules.
People from across the globe continue to flock to this iconic spot, plonk themselves down in one of the 2196 seats, and immerse themselves in the on-stage action. And it’s also said to be on of the world’s most haunted theatres, with many a ghost having been spotted roaming the hallowed hallways. But perhaps we’ll save those spooky stories for another day…
đź“Ť You’ll find Theatre Royal Drury Lane on Catherine Street, WC2B 5JF.
🚇 The nearest station is Covent Garden.