Shakespeare’s Globe Shows | Globe Theatre Plays & Tickets

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Shakespeare’s Globe presents a vibrant programme of plays, with a focus on Shakespeare’s works and inventive adaptations that bring his stories to life for modern audiences. The venue is home to two unique performance spaces, the open-air Globe theatre and the indoor, candlelit Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, each offering an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Why watch a show at Shakespeare's Globe

The wooden “O” experience

Step into the iconic open-air “wooden O”, a faithful reconstruction of the 1599 Globe theatre. Here, performers break the fourth wall, moving among the audience and delivering lines with an immediacy that pulls you straight into Shakespeare’s world.

Shakespeare for every mood

From heart-wrenching tragedies like Othello to light-hearted comedies such as Twelfth Night, the Globe’s repertoire changes each season. You’ll also find rare revivals and family-friendly interpretations, offering something for first-time visitors and seasoned theatre-goers alike.

A living piece of history

Watching Shakespeare plays in London isn’t just entertainment; it’s a cultural time capsule. Productions are staged with historical accuracy in costumes, staging, and sometimes even music, giving you a taste of what audiences experienced over 400 years ago.

Seasonal and atmospheric settings

Summer evenings bring golden light over the Thames during open-air shows, while winter moves performances into the candlelit Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, creating an intimate, glowing atmosphere perfect for drama.

Types of Shakespeare’s Globe shows

Tragedies: Intense, emotionally charged plays that explore ambition, betrayal, and the fragility of the human spirit, from the political downfall of Macbeth to the doomed romance of Romeo and Juliet and the jealousy-fuelled spiral of Othello.
Comedies: Lighthearted and witty, these stories brim with mistaken identities, playful romance, and clever wordplay. They include the moonlit mischief of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the banter and schemes of Much Ado About Nothing, and the disguises and tangled affections of Twelfth Night.
Histories: Sweeping portrayals of England’s past that capture the grandeur and intrigue of royal courts, as seen in Henry V’s rallying speeches, Richard III’s ruthless quest for the crown, and the shifting loyalties in Henry IV Parts 1 & 2.
Romances: Poetic blends of drama, comedy, and magic, often centred on forgiveness and redemption, such as the storm-swept journey of The Tempest, the miraculous reunion in The Winter’s Tale, and the adventurous odyssey of Pericles.
Adaptations and reimaginings: Fresh interpretations and new works inspired by Shakespeare’s characters and worlds, from the mischievous Rough Magic led by Macbeth’s Weird Sisters to the playful Midsummer Mechanicals and other inventive productions in the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse.

Choosing the right seat for Shakespeare’s Globe shows

Wooden ‘O’ open-air theatre (Main Globe stage)

Groundling standing tickets: £5–£10, the most affordable Shakespeare tickets in London. You’ll stand in the open-air yard right in front of the stage, first-come, first-served, offering an up-close, energetic experience.
Seated gallery bench tickets: £25–£80 depending on tier and view. These wooden benches wrap around the stage on three sides; cushions are available to hire for added comfort.

Sam Wanamaker Playhouse (Indoor candlelit theatre)

Tickets: £7.50–£30 for intimate indoor performances, often scheduled in the winter season or for special family-friendly productions.
Atmosphere: Lit entirely by candles, the Playhouse offers a warm, historically inspired setting that transports audiences back to the 17th century.

Know more about Sam Wanamaker Playhouse

Plan your experience

Show timings

Outdoor performances in the Wooden O typically run from April to October, with matinees at 2pm and evening shows at 7:30pm.
Indoor candlelit shows at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse run mainly in the autumn and winter months, with varied start times.

Venue accessibility

Step-free access: Level main entrance with lifts connecting the lobby, piazza, and seating levels.
Wheelchair seating: One space in the Yard and three with companion seats in Gentleman’s Box P (advance booking required).
Assisted performances: Captioned, signed, relaxed, and audio-described shows are regularly scheduled. Visual stories and touch tours are available for select productions.

Facilities & amenities

Dining: Swan Bar & Restaurant serves seasonal British cuisine and themed afternoon teas.
Shopping: Globe gift shop offers books, merchandise, and Shakespeare-inspired souvenirs.
Visitor support: Friendly patron staff assist with wayfinding, accessibility needs, and performance comfort.

Plan your visit

Frequently asked questions about Shakespeare’s Globe shows

How do I book Shakespeare’s Globe theatre tickets?

Choose your show and date, select your ticket type (standing or seating), input special access needs if applicable, pay securely, and receive an e-ticket by email. Arrive early for the best access.

What is the difference between Globe theatre shows and Sam Wanamaker Playhouse shows?

Globe shows are open-air, ideal during April–October. Playhouse shows like Rough Magic are indoors, candlelit, and family-oriented.

Are tickets refundable or exchangeable?

No, tickets cannot be refunded, amended, or rescheduled. Late arrivals may be refused entry, so please ensure to check the terms before booking.

Are children allowed inside the venue?

Yes, children under the age of 3 years may enter standing free on an adult’s lap.

Are photography and recording permitted during shows or tours?

No, photography and video recording are prohibited during performances, exhibitions, or guided tours. Photos are permitted only in designated areas before or after shows, always follow staff direction.

What should I wear or bring for a performance at the Globe theatre?

The Globe is an open-air theatre, so dress for the weather, bring layers, hats, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle. Cushions or blankets are available to hire for standing tickets, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

How early should I arrive before a show?

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime. This allows time for security, seating, and settling into groundling (standing) spots. Latecomers are typically only allowed in during breaks and may miss parts of the performance.

Can I bring my luggage or coat to the theatre?

Guests are asked to minimise luggage, large bags may be checked by security. Cloakroom services are seasonal; inquire at the Box Office if needed.

How long is a typical performance?

Most performances run close to two hours, in keeping with historical tradition, matching the original “two hours’ traffic” rule from Shakespeare’s era.