Criterion Theatre

The Criterion Theatre is a West End theatre located at Piccadilly Circus in London. It is a Grade II* listed building, recognised for its architectural and historical importance. The theatre has an official capacity of 588 seats and is unique for its entirely underground auditorium, offering an intimate and atmospheric theatrical experience.

Despite being built beneath street level, the theatre retains a well-preserved Victorian interior and has benefited from modern refurbishments while maintaining its period character. Today, the Criterion continues to be a vibrant part of London’s theatre scene, welcoming diverse productions and audiences year-round.

The History of the Criterion Theatre

The Criterion Theatre was originally commissioned as a large restaurant, dining rooms, ballroom, and a galleried concert hall in the basement, followed a design competition won by architect Thomas Verity. However, during construction, it was decided to convert the concert hall into a theatre. The first production opened on 21 March 1874 and included An American Lady and W.S. Gilbert’s Topsyturveydom. During WWII, the BBC requisitioned the theatre as a safe underground studio during the Blitz. In the post-war years, works by Samuel Beckett and Jean Anouilh were performed there.

Where is the Criterion Theatre?

The Criterion Theatre is located in Piccadilly Circus (W1J 9HR), just a 5-minute walk from Leicester Square and around 10 minutes from Green Park.

Criterion Theatre Nearest Train Station

The nearest train station to the Criterion Theatre is Charing Cross, which is approximately an 11-minute walk away.

Criterion Theatre Nearest Tube Station

The nearest Tube station to the Criterion Theatre is Piccadilly Circus, just a one-minute walk away, served by the Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines. Leicester Square is around a 10-minute walk and offers access to the Piccadilly and Northern lines. Green Park is also approximately 10 minutes away and is served by the Piccadilly and Victoria lines.

Buses to the Criterion Theatre

Several bus routes serve stops near the Criterion Theatre, making it easily accessible by public transport. The Regent Street St James stop (outside Tesco) is served by routes 12, 88, 94, 453, N3, and N15. Also outside Tesco, the Regent Street/St James stop is served by routes 6, 9, 139, 159, N9, N18, N97, N109, and N136. Nearby, the Haymarket/Jermyn Street stop (outside TigerTiger) is served by routes 6, 9, 139, N9, N15, and N13.

Criterion Theatre Seating Plan

The Criterion Theatre seats 588 people, with seating distributed across the Stalls, Dress Circle, and Upper Circle.

Criterion Theatre Accessibility

An induction loop system is available in the theatre foyer for visitors using hearing aids. Assistance dogs are welcome in the theatre, and a dog-sitting service can be arranged during performances if required.

The auditorium is located below street level, with step-free access available only to the Upper Circle via Jermyn Street. The Dress Circle is one level further down, and the Stalls are three levels below Jermyn Street and four levels below Piccadilly Circus. From the main entrance, there are 23 steps to the Upper Circle, 32 steps to the Dress Circle, and 54 steps to the Stalls.

As the building is Grade II listed, there is currently no lift facility. However, alternative access is available via the fire exit stairways on Jermyn Street, which may be used upon request. This route still involves steps but avoids the ornate curved stairway of the main entrance and may be easier for some visitors to manage.

An accessible toilet is located on the Upper Circle level, with step-free access from Jermyn Street.

For further assistance or to make arrangements in advance of a visit, guests are encouraged to contact the theatre's Front of House team on 020 7839 8811 or speak to a member of staff upon arrival.

Criterion Theatre Safety Policy

For the safety of all patrons, bag searches are conducted upon entry to the theatre. Prohibited items include hot food and alcohol purchased outside the venue. Patrons are advised to arrive at the theatre at least 15 minutes before the performance start time.

Criterion Theatre Dress Code

The Criterion Theatre has no formal dress code, feel free to come in everyday, comfortable attire.

Criterion Theatre: Recent Productions

Pride and Prejudice*(*Sort of) (October 2021 – February 2022)

Death Drop (March 2022 – April 2022)

2:22 A Ghost Story (May 2022 – January 2023)

The Unfriend (January 2023 – April 2023)

The Way Old Friend’s Do (August 2023 – September 2023)

The Merchant of Venice (February 2024 – March 2024)

Two Strangers (carry a Cake Across New York) (April 2024 – August 2024)

I Wish You Well – The Gwyneth Paltrow Ski Trial Musical (September 2024 – October 2024)

Jamie Allan’s Amaze (October 2024 – November 2025)

Criterion Theatre: Current Production

Titanique is currently running at the Criterion Theatre. It opened in December 2024 after making its Broadway transfer.