The West End is an area in central London, England, that is well-known for its commercial and theatrical activity. West End theatre, also known as London's "Theatreland," refers to the various professional theatres located in this area, which is considered to be the cultural heart of London's performing arts scene.
In 1642, Puritans closed all London theatres for 17 years. When the ban was finally lifted in 1660, London theatres started to thrive and West End was born. The oldest theatre still in use today is the Theare Royal Drury Lane, which was opened in 1663. It was originally known as the Theatre Royal, and King Charles II’s mistress Nell Gwynn is said to have performed at that theatre. It is the first place that people ever heard both the National Anthem and Rule Britannia.
The West End is home to many of the world's most famous theatres, including the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, the Lyceum Theatre, the Apollo Victoria Theatre, and the Prince of Wales Theatre, among others. These venues host a wide range of productions, including plays, musicals, comedies, dramas, and more, and attract visitors from all over the world.
Throughout history, leading performers have strived to make it to the West End. From the USA, a few of the performers to walk those stages include: Sinatra, Judy Garland, Crosby, Charlton Heston, and Sammy Davis Junior. From Britain, they include: Olivier, Gielgud, Coward, Hurt, Mirren and Anthony Hopkins. Shakespeare is said to have been a part of an acting troupe that played in Burbage’s original theatre.
Today, London’s West End is the largest theatre district in the world. On top of the 42 commercial West End theatres and many more non-profit organizations and producing houses, there are a wide array of restaurants, cinemas, and shops. It is a must see for any visitor and features a large concentration of diversity and talent.
Sources cited:
Andrews, Crispin. “Theatre in London's West End.” Britain Magazine | The Official Magazine of Visit Britain | Best of British History, Royal Family,Travel and Culture, 29 June 2017, https://www.britain-magazine.com/features/region/england/london/theatre-in-londons-west-end/.
Thomas, Sophie. “West End History: A Beginner's Guide to Theatreland.” London Theatre, London Theatre, 31 Aug. 2022, https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/theatre-news/news/history-of-the-west-end.
“London's West End: Your Theatre Guide.” Official London Theatre, https://officiallondontheatre.com/london-west-end-guide/.
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