Apollo Victoria Theatre
The Apollo Victoria Theatre first opened in 1930 as a cinema. The cinema was converted into a musical theater venue in 1981 with the opening of The Sound of Music. This was followed by many other massive musical productions, including Saturday Night Fever and Fiddler on the Roof. In 2006, the Apollo Victoria became the home of Wicked, where it has played ever since. The interiors of the theater feature a beautiful Art Deco design complemented by subtle accent lighting to create the effect of a secret underwater cavern. The Apollo Victoria Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
About Apollo Victoria Theatre
- The Apollo Victoria Theatre has a total seating capacity of 2,328 spread across two levels - 1298 seats in the Stalls and 1030 seats in the Dress Circle section.
- The seats in Row Y and above in the Dress Circle may have an obstructed view of the top of the stage due to the overhang.
- Nonetheless, the view from the deep Dress Circle section is still considered excellent and the current production can still be fully enjoyed from these seats.
Apollo Victoria Theatre Seating Plan >
Originally named the New Victoria Cinema, the Apollo Victoria Theatre opened in 1930, presenting films and variety shows. During World War II, the theatre was closed but was reopened after the war and showcased a combination of ballet, live performances and movies.
In the 1970s, the theatre became a venue for rock concerts and saw acts like ELO, Peter Gabriel, Cliff Richard and Led Zeppelin rehearsing there. The theatre reopened in 1981 as the Apollo Victoria Theatre and started staging musicals such as The Sound of Music, Camelot, and Fiddler on the Roof.
In 1984, it was extensively modified with the addition of a race track for the musical Starlight Express. Bombay Dreams, Saturday Night Fever, and Movin' Out followed by Wicked, which premiered in 2006, is the longest-running show at the theatre.
- The Apollo Victoria Theatre boasts a stunning art deco design, featuring a double-fronted facade and mermaid-inspired interior.
- The theatre is made primarily of concrete and has prominent horizontal bands running along the auditorium's exterior.
- The entrance is adorned with a cantilevered canopy and framed by vertical channels.
- Two black marble columns rise to the roof line.
- The interior design is nautically themed in the original Art Deco style, with extensive use of concealed lighting.
- The decor features scallop shells and columns that burst into sculptured fountains at the ceiling. Chrome trimmings are used sparingly to maintain a simple and elegant entrance.
Over the years, the Apollo Victoria Theatre has hosted some of the most successful and popular musicals in theatre history, including The Sound of Music, Fiddler on the Roof, and Starlight Express, which enjoyed a nearly twenty-year run. It is now best known for Wicked!
Know Before You Go
- Tube: Victoria Station is the nearest tube stop, serviced by the Victoria, Circle and District lines. The station is located just opposite the theatre.
- Bus: Victoria Coach Station is located near the theatre, with coaches to and from major UK cities. The following bus lines stop near the theatre - 2, 11, 13, 16, 24, 38, 36, 44, 52, 170, 185, 211, 390, 507, 761, 762, 763, 764, 765, C1 and C10.
- Cycle: Santander Cycle Hire is available 24/7 for short journeys. Cycles can be taken and returned without booking, making it a convenient option.
- Train: Victoria Station is the nearest train station, just a one-minute walk away.
- Parking: Pre-booked parking is available at a discounted rate with Q Park. Other car parks nearby include MasterPark at Rochester Row and NCP Car Park at Semley Place. Street parking is not available in the theatre as it is located in a red zone.
- Best Recommended Mode of Transport: The tube is the best way to reach the theatre since the closest tube station - Victoria Station is located right across from the theatre.
- Washrooms: Washroom facilities on each level, as well as accessible facilities in the Foyer.
- WiFi: Guest WiFi is available for free internet access, but phones must be switched off during the performance.
- Lost and Found: Lost property found during a performance is held securely in the main foyer.
- Lounge: An Ambassador Lounge experience is available with a range of packages.. The lounge has stair-free access and is located in the main foyer.
- Health and Safety: Stringent health and safety protocols and procedures are in place, including a full-fresh-air ventilation system providing 12 litres of fresh air per second in the auditorium.
- Security: Bag checks may be undertaken on arrival, and suitcases and large bags are not permitted in the theatre.
Visual
- The theatre offers visual services such as audio descriptions, touch tours, and large print and Braille cast lists for visually impaired patrons. However, these services must be requested before booking to ensure availability.
Auditory & Speech
- Sennheiser MobileConnect sound amplification system is available in the auditorium, and patrons can use their smart device or request one of the limited devices available from the venue.
- The theatre also provides other hearing services and audio described, captioned, relaxed, and BSL-interpreted/ signed performances.
Motor/Mobility
- The Apollo Victoria Theatre has 4 wheelchair positions in the Circle, accessed via platform lifts. Wheelchairs must not exceed 70cm in width, 80cm in length, and 200 kg (wheelchair and user combined).
- Row F of the Dress Circle is accessible via platform lifts, and the theatre can store wheelchairs nearby.
- To use lifts, arrive 30-45 minutes before the performance and notify the Front of House team. Access must be pre-booked.
Others
- The accessible toilet is in the main foyer. Access to this toilet is stair-free once inside the foyer.
- Guide dogs are welcome and can be taken into the auditorium or looked after during the performance. However, these seats cannot be booked online, and they must contact the theatre to arrange for their dog's accommodation during the performance.
- The theatre provides a 'Visual Story' to help prepare for the visit in detail. Aisle seats or seating near an exit can be requested. You may contact the theatre for the Visual Story.
- Arrive Early: Visitors are advised to arrive at the theatre at least 30 minutes before the show's start time.
- Prohibitions: Photography, recording, and the use of mobile phones are strictly prohibited during the performance.
- No Cloakroom: Since the theatre does not offer a cloakroom, avoid bringing large items like strollers, luggage, or large bags.
- Accessibility: If you are looking to use any of the inclusive/ accessible facilities, make sure to contact the theatre before booking to gain more information.
Tozi: Located a short walk away from the theatre, Tozi is an Italian tapas bar that serves a wide range of small plates and sharing platters. The menu features classic Italian dishes like burrata, arancini, and meatballs, as well as a selection of cocktails and wines. The average price for a meal is around £30 per person.
- Directions
to Tozi
Mango Tree: Mango Tree is an elegant Thai restaurant that offers a range of traditional dishes such as Tom Yum Goong, Pad Thai and Massaman curry. The restaurant also has a terrace overlooking Buckingham Palace Road. The average price for a meal is around £40 per person.
Directions to Mango Tree
Kazan: If you're looking for something a bit different, Kazan is a Turkish restaurant that serves delicious meze platters and grilled meats. The menu includes lamb shish, chicken beyti and mixed grill, as well as a variety of vegetarian options. The average price for a meal is around £25 per person.
- Directions
to Kazan
The Ivy Victoria: The Ivy Victoria is a stylish modern British restaurant that offers a range of dishes made with seasonal ingredients, including steaks, seafood and salads. The restaurant also has a bar and a private dining room, making it a great choice for special occasions. The average price for a meal is around £50 per person.
- Directions
to The Ivy Victoria
Frequently Asked Questions About Apollo Victoria Theatre
The Apollo Victoria Theatre is located in the West End of London, England at 17 Wilton Road. The theatre is situated between the busy and iconic Victoria Station and Vauxhall Bridge Road.
You can reach Apollo Victoria Theatre via train, bus, tube, or car.
Apollo Victoria Theatre has staged several productions including musicals, ballet, plays, and operas. A few notable ones include The Sound of Music, Fiddler on the Roof, Starlight Express, and Wicked, among others.
There are two seating sections available - Stalls and Dress Circle.
Yes. Apollo Victoria Theatre is accessible to people with reduced mobility. The theatre offers various facilities and resources for disabled visitors, including wheelchair access, audio guides, and braille script information.
The Apollo Victoria Theatre primarily features musicals and plays. Some of the most popular productions that played at the theatre include Bombay Dreams, Fiddler on the Roof, Saturday Night Fever and most recently, Wicked.
The price of the tickets depends on the show that you choose to watch and the timing of the same at the Apollo Victoria Theatre.
You can book your tickets to shows playing at the Apollo Victoria Theatre online at London Theatre Tickets. You will get the best deals and discounts and all the information you need at your fingertips.
Yes. There are quite a few dining options available near Apollo Victoria Theatre such as Tozi, Mango Tree, Kazan and more.
There are quite a few attractions near Apollo Victoria Theatre that you can explore before you go for a show. Some of these include Green Park, Westminster Cathedral, Buckingham Palace and others.
