The Barbican Centre, where the theatre is located, took over 10 years to be built, and was finally opened to the public in 1982 by Queen Elizabeth II. The Centre consists of one concert hall, which is the largest space, two theatres, three cinema screens, two art galleries, a public lending library, a conservatory and many other rooms, halls, restaurants and performances spaces. The Barbican Theatre, the second largest space located in the Centre, was designed to be the London home of the Royal Shakespeare Company. In 2002, the RSC decided against renewing its contract, which was reversed in 2013 when it was decided that the Company will return to the Barbican Theatre.

• Barbican Theatre follows a concept of utopian living, with mixed towers and terrace blocks, many raised on columns, overlooking lakes, lawns and a maze of high walks.
  
• It was designed by Peter Chamberlin, Geoffry Powell and Christoph Bon in a Brutalist style, with a complex multi-level layout and numerous entrances. 
  
• The Barbican Theatre is a proscenium arch theatre that incorporates innovative features and state-of-the-art technology. 
  
• The concert hall has an adjustable ceiling to vary the acoustics for different types of performances.
  
• The complex became a Grade II listing in 2001. 
  
•  Fun Fact: In 2003, the Barbican was voted London’s ugliest building due to its eccentric architecture.

The theatre opened to the Royal Shakespeare Company production of Trevor Nunn's Henry IV Parts I and II, starring Patrick Stewart in the title role and Timothy Dalton and Harriet Walter in supporting roles. As the years progressed, many other RSC productions were staged at the theatre, including Les Miserables in 1985. In 2023, the theatre is staging A Strange Loop which won the Pulitzer Prize, and various opera performances.

• Train: The nearest train stations are Liverpool Street and Farringdon, both a 10-minute walk from the Centre. 
  
• Tube: The nearest tube station to the Barbican Theatre is the Barbican station served by the Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, and Circle lines, which is a mere 4-minute walk from the Centre. Other stations in the vicinity are Moorgate, a 7-minute walk away, and St. Pauls on the Central line for the night tube. 
  
• Bus: The closest stop is the Barbican tube station served by routes  4 and 56. You could also hop onto bus route 153 which runs right along the Barbican. 
  
• Parking: For those travelling by car, the Barbican has dedicated parking spots on Beech Street and Silk Street.

• Gift store: A gift store is available at the Barbican Centre where you can purchase merchandise such as totes, mugs etc. 
  
• Washrooms: The centre has washrooms for men and women, accessible washrooms, and gender-neutral washrooms. 
  
• Baby Changing Facilities: Multiple washrooms at the venue are equipped with Baby Changing facilities, including some accessible washrooms.
  
• Parking: Barbican offers 24X7 parking and there are always personnel available.
  
• Cloakroom: A cloakroom is present to store your luggage and coats. It is open 90 minutes before and 30 minutes after a performance. While technically free, a voluntary donation amount is encouraged.

• Reach Early: It is advisable to book your ticket in advance to watch a show at the Barbican Theatre. 
  
• Accessibility: For differently-abled visitors, it is recommended that they inform the venue in advance of their requirements for a hassle-free experience. 
  
• Food and Beverage: The Barbican Centre offers various amenities, including cafes, bars, and restaurants, where you can grab a bite or a drink before or after the performance.
  
• Dress Recommendation: There is no official dress code at the Barbican Theatre. However, visitors generally prefer to dress in smart casuals while visiting the Barbican centre. 
  
• Recording Policy: Reasonable photography and recording of a few sections of shows are permitted. However, the use of flash and commercial photography is prohibited during a performance. It is best to ask at the venue if you wish to record anything.