If you think mainstream theatre is all musicals, tired farces and pompous interpretations of Shakespeare, try the Royal Court - where innovative new writing is the order of the day. Be prepared to be surprised.

It's MONTY PYTHON! A wonderful show that gets better every time you see it (I've seen it three times) and no place better than the intimate and intricate Palace Theatre. (Check out the wall in the back corridor with the history of the [more...]

Wilton's is the world's last remaining Grand Music Hall. Hidden away in the heart of the city, it's now home to a whole range of musical events, talks, and a cinema [more...]

At the the Tabard Theatre in Chiswick you'll find a great range of plays - everything from Shakespeare to experimental modern work. It's above the Tabard Pub [more...]

The puppeteers of the Little Angel Theatre opened up shop over forty years ago. They've been entertaining London's children - and adults - ever since. Join [more...]

Make 'em laugh, make 'em cry, leave 'em wanting more... if you love theatre so much you can't get enough, why not get involved on the other side of things and join an amateur theatre company? And even if you don't want to strut your [more...]

Central London's powerhouse of gay and lesbian theatre, plus a weekly jazz night - now under threat from the loss of its Arts Council Grant. Go to enjoy yourself. Check their website for ways to support them.

Major venue showing a wide range of music, theatre, dance, film and kids' events. There's a range of eateries and bars. The only problem with the place is that it's so easy to get lost!

Outdoor theatre as the bard might have known it. The theatre season runs from May to October, but there are other things going on the rest of the time: a permanent exhibition about Shakespeares life, times and work; temporary [more...]

Check out what's on at one of London's oldest and best loved community arts centres. There are performances of all kinds - the Centre's artist development programme results in interesting work at all scales - and plenty of opportunities [more...]

Well regarded theatre in Hammersmith that specialises in innovative new work. Has an extensive children's repertoire and does outreach work in the local community. Plus, the food in the cafe is tasty.

Lyric

Newish (opened in 2004) performance and arts space in North Finchley, providing an interesting mix of theatre, music, comedy and what have you. There are also classes in dance and theatre, but this has the feel of something that's still [more...]

Vibrant multi-use community arts centre and performance space between Archway and Highgate. Classes in every thing from ballet to yoga by way of photography, writing for children and life drawing.

Jacksons Lane

Great theatre in a stunning building. Lots of outreach work with local kids. Worth supporting but don't go for that reason - go because it'll give you a wonderful night out!

Hoxton Hall Theatre

Oh all right - not just Shakespeare, though surely A Midsummer's Night's Dream is what most people associate with this theatre company. In fact, they do a lot of other material too, including some children's plays.

Regents Park Open Air Theatre.

Tiny theatre specialising in international work reflecting Notting Hill's diverse multicultural community.

Gate Theatre, Notting Hill

Innovative local theatre with a world-class reputation. Of special note are their modern operas and community theatre projects.

Almeida Theatre

Local theatre with a reputation for plays, stand-up and cabaret. It's over a lovely Victorian-style pub that now has live music - jazz, rock, cajun and folk - once the theatre ends, making for a great night out all round. Oh, and the [more...]

Great local theatre with a rep for hard-hitting political plays along with the good contemporary drama. Also has a cosy first-run cinema, an interesting gallery, and great kids events.

Tricycle

London's quietest theatrical event season, every January.

London International Mime Festival