Apollo Victoria Theatre
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The Apollo Victoria Theatre in London is an impressive Art Deco style theater that was opened as a cinema in 1930. It is located in the heart of Westminster, just a few steps away from the Victoria station. Since 2006, the theater has been home to the globally successful musical Wicked and has established itself as one of the most famous stages of the West End. With its distinctive facade and opulent interior, it attracts thousands of visitors annually.
By Jessica Donev
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Book your ticket for the spectacular production of Wicked at the Apollo Victoria Theatre.
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9 tips for visiting the Apollo Victoria Theatre
Apollo Victoria Theatre by Night | Flickr: Enrique Dans CC BY 2.0
1
The best seatsIf you want the best view of the stage, the seats in the middle orchestra section (Stalls), approximately in rows D to H, are ideal. They offer an excellent view of the entire stage and are perfect to fully enjoy the elaborate production.
Ticket for Wicked | Flickr: Mabel Lu CC-BY-SA 2.0
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Arrive earlyThe theater is located near the Victoria station, which is often very busy. Plan enough time to arrive stress-free and possibly explore the surroundings. There are some nice cafes and restaurants nearby for a snack before the show. Should you arrive late, you will be let in at an appropriate time during the performance - however, this is only after 25 minutes of playtime.
3
Merchandise and SouvenirsIf you plan on buying merchandise such as T-shirts, programs, or other souvenirs, it's best to do so right upon arrival. Before the show, it's quieter, whereas during the intermission and after the performance, the lines at the merchandise stands are often very long.
4
Intermission snacksThe Apollo Victoria Theatre offers refreshments and snacks during the intermission. Since the lines can be long, it's recommended to order these right upon arrival or before the show. Alternatively, you can also bring your own small snacks.
5
Photos and autographsAfter the show, fans often gather at the stage entrance to get autographs from the performers. This is a great opportunity to snag a special memento. Note that taking photos during the performance is not allowed.
6
Bring tissuesThe story takes you on an emotional journey full of friendship, love, and self-determination. If you're easily moved to tears, use waterproof makeup and bring tissues.
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Wicked - front rowEvery Wednesday at 10 AM, the 24 seats in the first row for all performances of the following week (Tuesday to Sunday) are available online. Try your luck and experience Wicked up close for little money. These tickets are only available on the official website of the theater!
8
Good luck with TodayTixFor Wicked at the Apollo Victoria Theatre, The Daily Dozen also offers a limited number of digital day tickets, available exclusively through the TodayTix-App every performance day at 10 AM. These few tickets are much cheaper than the regular prices for the seats - if you're not lucky there, you can find your ticket here at TicketLens!
9
No exchange fees with TicketLens!If you secure your tickets with our affiliate ‘Viator’, you save on exchange fees. With ‘Viator’ you select your tickets on the seating plan and pay directly in your preferred currency! This saves you annoying fees.
Apollo Victoria Theatre at Night | Flickr: Fred Romero CC BY 2.0
Interesting facts about the Apollo Victoria Theatre
The famous theater on Wilton Road, in the London borough of Westminster, opened its doors as a cinema in 1930 and is now home to the musical Wicked.Apollo Victoria Theatre Entrance | Flickr: Andy Roberts CC BY 2.0
The history of the Apollo Victoria Theatre
The Apollo Victoria Theatre was built in 1929 by the architects Lewis and William Edward Trent for the Provincial Cinematograph Theatres. It is characterized by two identical concrete facades on Wilton Road and Vauxhall Bridge Road, with a plain entrance leading into a nautically themed Art Deco interior.
Originally opened as a cinema, it also provided space for variety shows and had a large stage and several dressing rooms. After closing during World War II, the building survived planned demolitions in the 1950s and showed a mix of ballet, live shows, and movies. From 1976 to 1980, it served as a venue for rock concerts before reopening in 1981 as the Apollo Victoria Theatre with a Shirley Bassey concert. The building was listed as a protected structure in 1972.
Originally opened as a cinema, it also provided space for variety shows and had a large stage and several dressing rooms. After closing during World War II, the building survived planned demolitions in the 1950s and showed a mix of ballet, live shows, and movies. From 1976 to 1980, it served as a venue for rock concerts before reopening in 1981 as the Apollo Victoria Theatre with a Shirley Bassey concert. The building was listed as a protected structure in 1972.
Apollo Victoria Theatre Entrance | Flickr: WxMom CC BY 2.0
The history of musicals
In the early 1980s, musicals such as The Sound of Music, Camelot, and Fiddler on the Roof were performed at the Apollo Victoria Theatre. In 1984, the theater was redesigned for the show Starlight Express by Andrew Lloyd Webber, which ran for 18 years with over 7,400 performances. After the theater's restoration, Bombay Dreams, also by Lloyd Webber, followed in 2002 and remained in the schedule until 2004. Afterwards, Saturday Night Fever returned, before the jukebox musical Movin' Out with music by Billy Joel was performed in 2006, and only ran for two months. Since September 2006, the musical Wicked has been shown at the Apollo Victoria Theatre, which continues to run successfully in the West End to this day.
Wicked | Flickr: Joan Marcus CC BY-ND 2.0
Wicked
On April 24, 2024, Wicked became the tenth longest-running West-End Show in history with its 6,762nd performance. You can find out why the play is so popular here.Wicked | Flickr: U.S. Department of Commerce CC BY-ND 2.0
The plot
Wicked is a prequel to 'The Wizard of Oz' and illuminates the unexpected friendship between Elphaba, an unusually green-skinned girl, and Glinda, the popular and beautiful student. Throughout their college years at Shiz University, the two come into conflict when Elphaba discovers that the schemes of the 'Wizard of Oz' are anything but honorable. Elphaba decides to fight against injustice, eventually becoming the 'Wicked Witch of the West'. Glinda, on the other hand, becomes the 'Good Witch of the North'. The musical explores themes such as friendship, prejudice, and the cost of integrity, while casting a new light on the familiar story of Oz.
Wicked Finale | Flickr: Matt Johnson CC BY 2.0
Why the audience loves Wicked
The audience loves Wicked for its unconventional storytelling, which retells the known story from 'The Wizard of Oz' from a new, fascinating perspective and presents the 'Wicked Witch' as a complex, misunderstood character. The profound themes such as friendship, prejudice, and the fight against injustice speak to universal human experiences and create an emotional connection. The captivating music, especially 'Defying Gravity', 'Popular' or 'For Good', coupled with stunning staging, leaves a lasting impression. Moreover, the layered characters and the emotional depth of the plot ensure that the audience feels drawn into the story. This combination of innovative story, emotional resonance, and spectacular stage art makes Wicked an unforgettable experience.
Why you should watch Wicked
Wicked is definitely a must-see because it tells an original and profound story, impresses with a fresh perspective on familiar characters, and captivates through spectacular music and staging. It stands out from other London musicals for its emotional depth, complex characters, and powerful message about friendship and self-determination. Wicked is ideal for visitors looking for a gripping and visually stunning theatrical experience that engages both the heart and mind.
The successful musical Wicked
The original Broadway production of Wicked won three Tony Awards and seven Drama Desk Awards. The original album featuring Idina Menzel as Elphaba and Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda received a Grammy Award. The success of the musical led to numerous worldwide productions and broke box office records in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and London. In 2016, Wicked surpassed 1 billion dollars in Broadway revenue and became the second biggest Broadway hit after The Lion King in 2017.
Now, there will even be a two-part film adaptation starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. The first part will be released on November 22, 2024, and the second part on November 26, 2025.
Now, there will even be a two-part film adaptation starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. The first part will be released on November 22, 2024, and the second part on November 26, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can children go to the theater?
Babies and children under 5 years old are not allowed in the theater. All guests under 15 must be seated next to an adult companion. Read more.
How long does a performance last?
The performance lasts about 2 hours and 45 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission. Read more.
I have a favorite performer in the cast. Will I definitely see them? Do I get my money back or a discount if I would have expected a different cast?
The producers cannot guarantee the performance of an artist, as this is always dependent on illness, injury, statutory holiday entitlements, and unforeseen circumstances. The scheduled holiday dates for specific artists are listed on the official website. Read more.
What do I need to consider as an audience member with disabilities?
Loud noises, flashing lights, smoke effects, and strobe lights are part of the production.
For wheelchair users, there are ramps; the entrance at Vauxhall Bridge leads directly to the wheelchair spaces. There are also accessible toilets. For visitors with hearing impairments, there is an induction loop system and special headphones and amplifiers that can be borrowed from the cloakroom. For visitors with visual impairments, there are special programs in Braille and large print. The theater also offers audio descriptions during certain performances, describing the action on stage. Assistance dogs are welcome in the theater with prior registration. Read more.
For wheelchair users, there are ramps; the entrance at Vauxhall Bridge leads directly to the wheelchair spaces. There are also accessible toilets. For visitors with hearing impairments, there is an induction loop system and special headphones and amplifiers that can be borrowed from the cloakroom. For visitors with visual impairments, there are special programs in Braille and large print. The theater also offers audio descriptions during certain performances, describing the action on stage. Assistance dogs are welcome in the theater with prior registration. Read more.
When should I arrive?
It is recommended to arrive about 30-45 minutes before the start of the show to have enough time for entry, wardrobe, and any snacks or drinks. The doors to the auditorium usually open 55 minutes before the performance. Read more.
Can I buy food and drinks at the theater?
Yes, the theatre offers a selection of snacks, sweets and drinks that can be purchased before the performance and during the interval. It is not permitted to bring your own food and drinks. Read more.
Is there a way to leave the theater after the show without having to wait a long time?
The theater empties relatively quickly, so you don't have to wait long to leave the theater. There are people who leave the theater already during the final applause. Please wait for the final applause and give the performers your appreciation. Read more.
General information
opening hours
The performances begin on time as follows:
Tuesday - Saturday at 19:30
Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday at 14:30
tickets
website
address
17 Wilton Road
London SW1V 1LG
United Kingdom
how to get there
Written byJessica DonevJessica is the definition of Jack of all trades. When she wants to do something, she just does it. That's why Jessica is an event manager, professional dancer, trainer, content creator, speaker / presenter in training and much more. Having traveled the world a lot, she knows what's important when traveling and shares it with you here on TicketLens.
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