Sondheim Theatre
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Watching Les Misérables in the West End was one of the items on my bucket list. I grew up listening to Les Misérables, influenced by my mother, and always dreamed of going to the UK to see it! Finally, on March 27th, 2023, my dream came true. The tickets were in the center of the front row, and the seats were amazing. I could see each character's face up close and hear each character and the maestro's breath. And above all, the beauty of the set and lighting was amazing. During the scene where Eponine heads towards the barricade after singing "On My Own" and during "Stars," I noticed the beauty of the lighting and set. I didn't realize this even in Japan when I had front-row seats. Especially during "Stars," the scene where Javert sings while pointing his baton towards the stars was too cool. It's the part where he sings, "This I swear by the stars." He was the coolest Javert I've ever seen, and I doubt that anyone will ever surpass that scene. My heart was trembling. Also, since there was nothing blocking my view of the stage in front of me, I got deeply immersed in the story and felt like I was one of the characters. Les Misérables is generally a heavy and dark story. Therefore, I think whether or not you like this work is a matter of personal taste. However, if you like the Les Misérables movie, I recommend watching it. It will surely become an unforgettable memory. Watching Les Misérables for the first time in the center of the front row in the West End is a lifelong memory. Thank you to the cast and orchestra for the wonderful singing and acting. And I sincerely thank my friend who provided this wonderful opportunity. Thank you for watching it with me and I was able to experience one of the happiest moments in my life because of you.
Daigo WatanabeDaigo Watanabe
00
As a 6'4" tall, 240 lb theatergoer, I was thrilled to discover that Sondheim Theatre provided an exceptional experience that catered to my needs. Our seats in Dress Circle Row B exceeded all expectations, offering ample width and comfortable legroom, allowing me to fully enjoy the performance without any discomfort. The view from our seats was simply mesmerizing. We were treated to a front-row perspective that showcased the grandeur and artistry of the Les Miserables show. As someone who has attended Broadway shows in New York, I can confidently say that Sondheim Theatre delivers an experience that rivals the best of Broadway. The production was a feast for the senses, leaving us awestruck by its sheer beauty. One of the standout features of Sondheim Theatre was its commitment to accessibility and affordability. The theater boasted a well-stocked and easily accessible bar, allowing us to enjoy refreshments during intermission. The bathrooms were conveniently located, ensuring a stress-free experience. The thoughtful layout of the theater provided excellent sightlines and acoustics, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the performance and enjoy every moment. In conclusion, Sondheim Theatre offers an unforgettable Broadway experience that caters to theater enthusiasts of all sizes. From its comfortable seating to its impeccable production values, this theater stands out as a top-notch venue. If you're looking for a must-see show with exceptional views and an engaging atmosphere, Sondheim Theatre is the perfect choice.
Michael SilverMichael Silver
40
The Sondheim is a Grade II listed Edwardian theatre which opening in 1907 as the “Queen’s Theatre” - the new name only dates back to 2019 following a major refurbishment. Les Misérables has been the resident musical here since 2004 (having moved from the Palace Theatre just up the road, which hosted the show for 18 years) and is undoubtedly one of the most grand and dramatic shows in the West End. There’s a reason Les Mis is the longest running musical of all time. Most seats have a superb view for Les Mis and unlike a lot of West End shows it really doesn’t matter how high up you are. • Bad seats - avoid the 2nd and 3rd rows on the Grand Circle since those in the front row genuinely have to lean forward to see - this is especially the case on the sides. • Good seats - the first six seats on either side of row A on the Grand Circle are easily the best value you can buy at approx £20-40 (on the condition that you will happily lean forward for the entire duration of the show - even the ticket states than leaning forward is necessary). By comparison, the front row of the Dress Circle below is £145-175! Both the theatre and Les Mis compliment each other perfectly. Highly recommended for a true taste of why nothing compares to the West End. If you found my review or photos useful please leave a quick thumbs up 👍 Thank you!
Sam SaltwellSam Saltwell
40
Obviously went to see Les Misèrables. The show was superb and I would recommend going to see it. The rest of my review is about our experience from a disabled person's eye. The accessible team at the theatre are amazing, so friendly and nothing was too much trouble. Booking the Accessible seating was very easy as the lady talked us through what we needed to do. Arrived at the theatre and made ourselves known to the security at the main door. Can't remember the ladies name but she was ready waiting for us. Once she checked our tickets she walked with us round to the wheelchair entrance and showed us to our seats (my wife can transfer from her power chair to an aisle seat). My wife's power chair was taken away (I'm guessing due to fire safety reasons and being next to the emergency exit) but if she needed it back for any reason it would've been brought back to her even if it was during the performance. As soon as the interval arrived, my wife's chair was brought to her so she could use the facilities which she staff escorted her to and from, she said the facilities were spacious and very clean. When the show was over again, her chair was brought straight to her and we was shown the way out, at no point during our visit was we made to feel rushed. We will definitely be going back soon.
Mark KnottMark Knott
00
Where does someone start to review the world’s longest playing show with outstanding awards . It has vibrance, action, passion, loads of romance, comedy, whit, humour and something I have not felt in a theatre for a long time powerful emotion that bought tears to many people’s eyes mine included. Les Mis showing in the renamed Sondheim Theatre does both the show and theatre justice. The architecture in the theatre looks superb. For this you just have to look in the main auditorium/theatre to see the quality of the main chandelier and paintings as well as the general up keep. All staff are fantastic in looking after theatre goers needs throughout the show and prices of the tickets and in house bar reflected how accessible they wanted to keep the theatre. The only issue I found was if you are over 6ft 1 don’t book a seat in the grand circle as space is limited in that area especially with no coat room on offer and everyone having to put coats on the floor between their legs, this however never diversified from the exceptional quality of the cast and crew. I can honestly say out of Broadway and the West End I much prefer the West end as you can hear and feel the emotion in your voices which made half the audience well up when you wanted us to with your glorious words and songs.
Ady MillsAdy Mills
20
Like a lot of people I visited the theatre to watch Les Miserables. Even before entering you could tell all the staff would ensure your visit was good. The door staff and security was excellent and ensured a smooth transition from outside to the next stage on the visit. I was in the stalls and the bar area there was an ample size for a theatre so old (built in 1907). The bar staff were excellent and even my pre show g&t was given the utmost attention and served how I wanted. These little details make a massive difference. My seat was comfortable, again taking into consideration the age of the theatre. I'm just under 6 feet and it was snug but not uncomfortably so. I overheard a conversation with some other patrons who had a member of the party who was a younger person with special needs. The member of staff spoke to them and made sure everything was satisfactory and if they required anything at all to just ask. Again it's these small details that make a massive difference. The show was of course impeccable and of the highest standard. Incredible performances by all members of the cast which was shown by a huge standing ovation from all present. Great theatre, great staff , and an amazing show , could not recommend highly enough
Throw glassThrow glass
10
Nearby Attractions Of Sondheim Theatre
The British Museum
The British Museum
Trafalgar Square
Covent Garden
St James's Park
M&M'S London
The National Gallery
Primark
Hamleys
Chinatown

The British Museum
4.7
(49.6K)Click for details

The British Museum
4.7
(44.1K)Click for details

Trafalgar Square
4.6
(41.3K)Click for details

Covent Garden
4.6
(38.2K)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Sondheim Theatre
Circolo Popolare London
Dishoom Covent Garden
Ave Mario
Govinda's Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurant
The Top Secret Comedy Club
Dishoom Carnaby
Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus
Pizza Pilgrims
Fatt Pundit
Burger & Lobster Leicester Square

Circolo Popolare London
4.8
(11.2K)$$
Click for details

Dishoom Covent Garden
4.7
(8.9K)$$
Click for details

Ave Mario
4.8
(7.8K)$$
Click for details

Govinda's Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurant
4.8
(8K)Click for details
Basic Info
Address
51 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 6BA, United Kingdom
Map
Phone
+44 344 482 5151
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Website
sondheimtheatre.co.uk
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Reviews
Overview
4.7
(3.9K reviews)
Ratings & Description
attractions: The British Museum, The British Museum, Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, St James's Park, M&M'S London, The National Gallery, Primark, Hamleys, Chinatown, restaurants: Circolo Popolare London, Dishoom Covent Garden, Ave Mario, Govinda's Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurant, The Top Secret Comedy Club, Dishoom Carnaby, Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus, Pizza Pilgrims, Fatt Pundit, Burger & Lobster Leicester Square
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