A trip to the theatre is one of London’s best nights out. With the exception of New York, no city has the same array of innovation, diversity, and exciting new voices in its midst. While there’s nothing quite like the West End, the volume and quality of London’s vibrant smaller, independent theatre scene is one of the true jewels of the city.
From Hackney to Southwark, here are some of our favourite independent theatres in London, and some of the exciting shows that are set to be showcased.
The Old Vic
One of the most famous independent theatres in London, The Old Vic is on any theatre-goer’s bucket list. Established way back in 1818, it has a storied history including being largely damaged during the Blitz, dissolution, and reopening. Recently, it put Noel Howard’s acclaimed Present Laughter, starring Andrew Scott.
What to book: The Real Thing
Written by legendary playwright Tom Stoppard, The Real Thing picks back the layers of reality and deceit that comes with performance and performativity. James McArdle and Bel Powley star as a married couple who’s professional relationship to fiction – as a playwright and actress respectively – makes having an honest and faithful relationship a little complicated.
22nd August – 26th October
Buy tickets: oldvictheatre.com
Southwark Playhouse
Founded in 1993, this theatre company is also a registered charity with a commitment to using the arts as a force for good in the community. Spread across two locations in Borough and Elephant & Castle, they focus on showcasing a diverse and innovative portfolio of work, as well as a teaching programme of participation work.
What to book: Dorian
Dorian is a modern, queer adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray, Oscar Wilde’s classic story of youth, power, and immortality which seems to have never been more relevant than in the social media age. This contemporary retelling features a glam-rock score by Joe Evans and Linnie Reedman and a lead performance by Alfie Friedman.
When: 4th July – 10th August
Buy tickets: southwarkplayhouse.co.uk
Arcola Theatre
Based in Hackney, Arcola is one of the most affordable theatres in London and commits to a roster that aims to champion diversity and challenge the status quo of the industry. Through Artistic Director Mehmet Ergem they boast an eclectic mix of plays, opera and musicals.
What to book: Surrender
Surrender is a new modern take on The Taming of a Shrew, and there is where the comparisons with 10 Things I Hate About You end. This take on the journey of submission explores it through the lens of motherhood, rather than a romantic relationship, and is the result of a collaboration between Writer Sophie Swithinbank and Director/Performer Phoebe Ladenburg.
When: 4th October – 28th October
Buy tickets: arcolatheatre.com
Kiln Theatre
Formerly the Tricycle Theatre, the Kiln Theatre won Best London Theatre at the Stage Awards in 2021 and has launched many plays that have gone on to have huge national success such as Red Velvet, The Son and Handbagged.
Located in Kilburn, alongside its 292-seater main stage it also houses an independent cinema, as well as a bar, restaurant and cafe.
What to book: Pins and Needles
We love the internet, but it’s fair to say we live in an age of disinformation, not exactly helped by billionaire buying social media companies solely to assuage their own insecurities. Pins and Needles is a cautionary tale about this dangerous phenomenon, honing in on its most lethal form – in science and healthcare, exploring the politics around vaccines, and the human stories behind them.
When: 19th September – 26th october
Buy tickets: kilntheatre.com
Finborough Theatre
The Finborough Theatre might be small – seating just 50 in its main stage – but this West Brompton establishment is no less ambitious. As well as showcasing original works from across Britain and Ireland, it also puts on intimate productions from renowned playwrights like Tennesse Williams and Frank McGuinness
What to book?:The Trumpeter
Trapped beneath the Azovstal steelworks during the siege of Mariupol in Spring 2022, a trumpeter shares the darkness with two compatriots, trying to find harmony in the barrage of shells to compose a symphony of war.
This run marks the play’s UK premiere and, inspired by true events, illustrates the power of art during war. It stars Kristin Milward, and runs for a four-week limited season.
When: 9th July – 3rd AUGUST
Buy tickets: finboroughtheatre.co.uk
Bush Theatre
This independent theatre prides itself on discovering new and exciting playwrights that reflect the vibrancy of contemporary British culture. In an industry often beset by inequality of opportunity, they have given a platform to many artists and shows that have gone on to a West End run and have launched actors such as Alan Rickman, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Andrew Scott.
What to book: Tender
Ivy and Ash are at different stages in life. One has a flat, a boyfriend and a plan. One is fresh out of a toxic relationship and doesn’t know what’s next. But they share a chance meeting, and something blossoms. This new play by Eleanor Tindall explores a very modern romantic entanglement.
When: 19th NOVEMBER – 21ST DECEMBER
Buy tickets: bushtheatre.co.uk
Park Theatre
Located next to Finsbury Park, Park Theatre is one of London’s most recent success stories. Launched in 2013 after a long search for a suitable space, it soon garnered the support of British Theatre icons like Ian McKellan and Alan Rickman.
Under Artistic Director Jez Bond, it is known for its pioneering championing of diverse, modern theatre, and houses everything from gritty dramas to new musicals in its two intimate main stages, seating 200 and 90 respectively.
What to book: When It Happens to You
Amanda Abbington (Sherlock, Mr Selfridge) leads the cast in this thriller based on a mother desperately trying to hold her family together after a devastating event changes the course of their lives. The play is from bestselling author Tawni O’Dell ,and is directed by the Bond himself. Expect breathless action and though-provoking questions
When: 31st July – 31st August
Buy tickets: parktheatre.co.uk
