The Criterion Theatre
Sightseeing attraction | London | England | United Kingdom
The Criterion Theatre in London, England, is one of the most well-known and historically significant theaters in the heart of the West End, the city's famous theater district. This intimate theater is located right next to Piccadilly Circus and is an iconic example of Victorian architecture and engineering. With a capacity of about 588 seats, it is one of the smaller houses in the West End, but it offers a rich history and a distinctive atmosphere that makes it a popular destination for theater lovers. It is known for its long tradition of presenting comedies and light entertainment, as well as for its unique underground construction.
The history of the Criterion Theatre began in 1870, when the two restaurateurs Felix William Spiers and Christopher Pond, who already operated the neighboring Criterion Restaurant, decided to build a theater to expand their entertainment offerings. Architect Thomas Verity was commissioned to design the building, creating a masterpiece that is completely underground – an innovative solution to make the most of the limited space in the bustling area of Piccadilly Circus. Construction began in 1871, and the theater opened on March 21, 1874. Originally serving as a concert hall and entertainment stage, it soon established itself as a venue for plays, especially comedies. During World War II, the Criterion was used by the BBC from 1940 to 1944, where they recorded radio broadcasts as the underground location provided protection from bomb attacks.
The Criterion Theatre is architecturally remarkable. Being underground, the entrance is at street level, while the actual auditorium and stage are below. The auditorium features intricately decorated plasterwork, gilded details, and a horseshoe-shaped balcony that creates an intimate proximity to the stage. Verity's original interior design, including blue and white tiles and Victorian decor, has been largely preserved and was restored in 1989 through extensive renovation work. This renovation, necessitated by water damage and a fire, preserved the theater's historical character and brought it up to modern standards. The building is a Grade II* Listed Building, highlighting its cultural and architectural significance.
Over the years, the theater has earned a reputation for light, entertaining productions, particularly comedies and farces. One of its most successful productions in history is "The 39 Steps," an adaptation of the Hitchcock classic that ran for over a decade – from 2006 to 2017 – and reached more than 3,000 performances. This show, which featured just four actors portraying a complex story full of humor, became a symbol of the Criterion's creative energy. Other notable productions include long runs of plays such as "Run For Your Wife" and "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare," solidifying the theater's reputation as a home for witty, accessible entertainment.
For visitors, the Criterion Theatre offers a unique experience. The underground location creates an intimate atmosphere where the audience sits close to the stage, enhancing the connection to the performers. The close seating arrangement and steep layout of the seats ensure a good view from almost every seat, although the limited size of the house also means that performances are often sold out quickly. In addition to the auditorium, there is a small bar in the foyer offering drinks and snacks, as well as a souvenir shop selling programs and theater-related items. The central location at Piccadilly Circus makes the theater easily accessible and ideal for an evening amidst the bustling West End, close to other attractions such as Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square.
The significance of the Criterion Theatre lies in its historical role as one of the oldest active theaters in the West End and in its architectural uniqueness as an underground structure. It is a testament to Victorian engineering and London's cultural life in the late 19th century. At the same time, it has proven itself as a modern venue, specializing in comedies and occupying a unique niche. Whether admiring the historic architecture, enjoying a humorous performance, or simply experiencing the atmosphere of the West End, the Criterion Theatre offers a rich experience that captures the essence of London's theater life in an impressive way.
