Barbican Theatre's FUSE Diverse Dance project's performance of Put On Your Red Shoes at The Plymouth Athenaeum 15 - 16 February 2019
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Barbican Theatre

4.6
·174 reviews·, United Kingdom

A vibrant hub for performing arts and historic waterfront charm, offering diverse theatre, unique architecture, and lively local culture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

For theatre and nightlife

CrowdMedium
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Barbican Theatre's FUSE Diverse Dance project's performance of Put On Your Red Shoes at The Plymouth Athenaeum 15 - 16 February 2019

Barbican Theatre

Best Time

Evenings

For theatre and nightlife

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant hub for performing arts and historic waterfront charm, offering diverse theatre, unique architecture, and lively local culture.

4.6
(174 reviews)

"The Barbican offers a magical establishment where you can meet artists, make friends, and create treasured moments."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Navigate the Barbican Estate

Arrive early! The Barbican Centre is vast and can be confusing to navigate. Allow extra time to find your way.

🎟️ Book Theatre Tickets in Advance

Popular shows and comedy nights sell out fast. Check schedules and book ahead to avoid disappointment.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Barbican Centre's Brutalist Architecture

The Barbican Centre's Brutalist Architecture

Barbican Estate, London

Iconic brutalist design meets lush greenery and water features, creating a unique urban oasis.

Live Theatre Performances

Live Theatre Performances

Barbican Theatre, London

Experience world-class plays, musicals, and experimental theatre from renowned artists.

Plymouth's Historic Barbican Waterfront

Plymouth's Historic Barbican Waterfront

The Barbican, Plymouth

Cobbled lanes, independent shops, and vibrant pubs offering a charming harbor atmosphere.

B-Bar's Quirky Events & Food

B-Bar's Quirky Events & Food

B-Bar, Plymouth

Enjoy Thai food, live music, comedy, and a cozy atmosphere with supportive staff.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigate the Barbican Maze

The Barbican's sprawling, multi-level complex can be disorienting. Arrive early, especially if you're new, as signage is described as 'so-so.' Allow ample time to find your way to the theatre and explore the surrounding arts center.

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

While the Barbican hosts a variety of events, popular theatre productions and comedy nights can sell out. Check schedules and book tickets in advance, especially for well-known performers or critically acclaimed shows.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
For theatre and nightlife
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunny afternoons
Why
Exploring Plymouth's Barbican
Crowd
Medium
When
During special events
Why
Unique festivals and shows
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ever wondered what it looks like to have a go at @RedBullUK Up The Mast? No hate on our attempt please, but what an awesome afternoon it was on The Barbican in Plymouth. Can you spot yourself in some of our highlights? #redbull #redbullupthemast #upthemast #plymouthuk
@visitplymouth
7K likes • 117.6K views

🎯 Navigate the Barbican Estate

Arrive early! The Barbican Centre is vast and can be confusing to navigate. Allow extra time to find your way. Reddit

🎟️ Book Theatre Tickets in Advance

Popular shows and comedy nights sell out fast. Check schedules and book ahead to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Pirates Weekend has officially begun in Plymouth! Head down to The Barbican, Sutton Harbour, the Waterfront and Royal William Yard over the course of the weekend for plenty of pirate fun!🦜
@visitplymouth
5.1K likes • 66.2K views
Rohtko, a four-hour epic at the Barbican, revealed how live theatre and live cinema can interrogate the very conditions of art and authenticity through the creation of a non-linear, multi-layered, real-time artwork. - my full review in the comments!
ninjakahlo
13 likes • 619 views

🍽️ Enjoy Thai Food at B-Bar

The B-Bar offers excellent Thai food cooked to order in a relaxed atmosphere. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Plymouth's Cobbled Lanes

Wander the charming streets of Plymouth's Barbican for independent shops and a lively harbor vibe. TikTok

Direct from its critically acclaimed run at the Barbican, @fiddlerontheroofuk is now on tour and arriving in Nottingham this August! 🎻 The new staging of the beloved classic features iconic songs including Tradition, Matchmaker and If I Were a Rich Man bought to life with a heartwarming story of love, resilience and family. #fiddlerontheroof #theatre #musical #musicaltheatre
royalnottingham
114 likes • 6.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Navigate the Barbican Estate

Arrive early! The Barbican Centre is vast and can be confusing to navigate. Allow extra time to find your way. Reddit

🎟️ Book Theatre Tickets in Advance

Popular shows and comedy nights sell out fast. Check schedules and book ahead to avoid disappointment. Instagram

🍽️ Enjoy Thai Food at B-Bar

The B-Bar offers excellent Thai food cooked to order in a relaxed atmosphere. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Plymouth's Cobbled Lanes

Wander the charming streets of Plymouth's Barbican for independent shops and a lively harbor vibe. TikTok

🚢 Ferry to Royal William Yard

Take a short ferry trip from Plymouth's Barbican for beautiful coastal views and local food. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(174 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Barbican Centre for its diverse and high-quality theatre productions and its striking brutalist architecture. In Plymouth, the historic Barbican waterfront is loved for its charming atmosphere, independent shops, and the B-Bar's good food and quirky events. However, some find the Barbican Centre's layout confusing and note a lack of nearby food options in Plymouth.

"When in Plymouth we always visit the Bbar at the theatre complex for Thai food, cooked as you wait....simply excellent. Good people serving and cooking their great dishes. Lovely atmosphere. Great place to visit and convenient for the National Aquatium just accross the harbour."

Richard Faisey

"Amazing cosy venue and very supportive staff. Great prices and quirky events. B Bar attached is a relaxing atmosphere and good food"

Nic Scott-Coyle

"Have attended a few great shows hear (anything comedy is our go to!) with family and friends. Always have a fantastic time. Great value for money with friendly helpful staff."

MJC Passive Fire Ltd Accredited Passive Fire Protection & Carpentry Services

What People Like

World-class theatre performances
Unique brutalist architecture
Charming historic waterfront

What People Dislike

Confusing layout
Limited nearby food options (Plymouth)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Barbican Centre is accessible via the Barbican tube station (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan lines). It's also a pleasant walk from other central London locations. Instagram

Plymouth's Barbican is easily accessible by foot from the city center. You can also take local buses or enjoy a scenic ferry ride from nearby areas. TikTok

Yes, there are car parks available at the Barbican Centre in London, but they can be expensive. In Plymouth, street parking is available around the Barbican, but can be limited. Reddit

The nearest train station to Plymouth's Barbican is Plymouth Station. From there, it's a short taxi or bus ride to the waterfront. TikTok

Yes, the Barbican Estate in London offers a unique walking experience through its brutalist architecture. Plymouth's Barbican is best explored on foot to discover its charming streets. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased online through the official Barbican website, by phone, or in person at the box office. For some shows, rush tickets might be available via apps like TodayTix. Instagram

Concessions may be available for students, seniors, and children for certain performances. Check the specific show's booking page for details. Reddit

The Barbican Centre's opening hours vary depending on the venue and ongoing exhibitions or performances. It's best to check their website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

For some performances, tickets may be available on the door, but it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for popular shows, to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Refund and exchange policies vary by performance. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions at the time of booking or contact the box office directly for assistance. Reddit

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The Barbican hosts a diverse range of performances, including theatre, dance, music, opera, and comedy. They are known for hosting both established and experimental productions. Instagram+1

Plymouth's Barbican offers a historic waterfront with independent shops, pubs, restaurants, and is near attractions like the National Aquarium. TikTokReddit

The Barbican Centre is generally accessible, with lifts and accessible seating available for many performances. It's recommended to contact them directly to discuss specific needs. Instagram

Yes, guided tours are often available, offering insights into the architecture and history of the Barbican Estate and Centre. Check their website for tour schedules. Instagram

The B-Bar is described as having a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with quirky events and friendly staff, making it a great spot for food and entertainment. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Barbican Centre has several cafes and restaurants offering a range of cuisines. For more extensive options, the surrounding Barbican Estate and nearby areas provide numerous choices. Instagram

Plymouth's Barbican boasts a variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs, with a notable mention for the B-Bar's excellent Thai food. TikTokReddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the performance venues. There are usually bars and cafes available for refreshments. Reddit

Most dining establishments at the Barbican Centre and in Plymouth's Barbican area offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus in advance. TikTok

Dining prices can vary. While some high-end restaurants exist, there are also more affordable cafes and pubs, especially around Plymouth's Barbican. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is typically not allowed during performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. Check venue rules for common areas. Instagram

The Barbican Centre's unique brutalist architecture, water features, and greenery offer many striking photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

Yes, the historic streets, harbor, and boats at Plymouth's Barbican are very photogenic. Capture the charm of the cobbled lanes and waterfront. TikTok

Drone photography is generally not permitted within the Barbican Estate in London due to its residential and public nature. Always check local regulations. Instagram

The golden hours around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light for capturing the architecture. Daytime offers good light for exploring the grounds. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families visiting Plymouth's Barbican, the B-Bar offers a relaxed environment with good food and quirky events that can appeal to all ages. Reddit The area itself is great for a stroll, and the nearby National Aquarium is a fantastic attraction. Reddit Keep an eye out for special family-friendly events like Pirates Weekend, which are always a hit. TikTok

In London, while the Barbican Centre is more geared towards adult arts, many of its performances can be enjoyed by older children and teenagers, especially musicals or visually engaging theatre. Check the specific show's age recommendations. The unique architecture of the Barbican Estate can also be an interesting visual experience for younger visitors. Instagram

🚶 Budget Travelers

Plymouth's Barbican offers a more budget-friendly experience with its numerous pubs and cafes. Enjoying the waterfront atmosphere is free, and a short ferry trip to Royal William Yard is inexpensive. TikTok The B-Bar is noted for its good prices and quirky events, making it a great value option. Reddit

In London, while Barbican Centre tickets can be pricey for major shows, look for rush tickets or consider attending free exhibitions or events if available. Exploring the brutalist architecture of the Barbican Estate itself is a free activity. Instagram+1

couples

For a romantic outing, Plymouth's Barbican offers charming cobbled streets, waterfront dining, and cozy pubs perfect for a relaxed evening. TikTok+1 Enjoy a meal at the B-Bar with its pleasant atmosphere and good food. Reddit

In London, a theatre date at the Barbican Centre can be a sophisticated choice, followed by a drink at one of the Centre's bars or exploring the atmospheric estate. Instagram Consider a performance that appeals to shared interests for a memorable evening. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Barbican Centre: An Architectural Marvel

The Barbican Centre in London is a Grade II listed building renowned for its brutalist architecture. Designed by Chamberlin, Powell & Bon, it's a complex of arts venues, residential apartments, and public spaces, characterized by its raw concrete surfaces, geometric shapes, and elevated walkways. The estate is interspersed with water features and lush greenery, creating a striking contrast that has become iconic. Instagram+1

This unique design extends to the theatre spaces themselves, with some featuring distinctive architectural elements like the 'tuning fork' columns in the School of Music and Drama. Exploring the Barbican is an experience in itself, offering a glimpse into a distinct architectural era that continues to inspire and intrigue visitors. Instagram

Visitors often find the sheer scale and layout of the Barbican Estate to be a point of fascination, and sometimes, confusion. It’s a place where art, living, and performance seamlessly blend, offering a truly immersive urban experience. InstagramReddit

Plymouth's Historic Barbican: A Waterfront Gem

Plymouth's Barbican is a historic waterfront area brimming with character. Its narrow, cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and picturesque harbor create a charming atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. This area is a hub for independent shops, traditional pubs, and a diverse range of restaurants, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and a taste of local life. TikTok+1

The Barbican is also a gateway to other attractions. A short ferry trip from here can take you to the impressive Royal William Yard, offering stunning coastal views and further historical exploration. TikTok For those interested in marine life, the National Aquarium is conveniently located just across the harbor. Reddit

Beyond its historical charm and amenities, the Barbican in Plymouth is known for its vibrant events, such as the annual Pirates Weekend, which draws crowds for family-friendly fun. TikTok It's a place that offers a blend of history, culture, and entertainment, making it a must-visit destination in Devon. TikTok

Experiencing Theatre at the Barbican

The Barbican Theatre in London is a world-renowned venue that hosts a wide array of performing arts. From critically acclaimed plays and musicals to avant-garde theatre and dance, it offers a diverse program catering to various tastes. Performers like Cillian Murphy have graced its stage, delivering powerful performances that have garnered significant attention. Instagram

Recent productions have included notable shows like 'Rohtko,' an experimental piece exploring the intersection of live theatre and cinema, and 'Good Night, Oscar,' which earned a Tony Award for its lead actor. Instagram+1 The theatre is also known for hosting touring productions, such as 'Fiddler on the Roof,' bringing beloved classics to its stage. Instagram

For those attending a performance, it's worth noting that the Barbican Centre's complex layout can be a challenge. However, the quality of the productions and the unique architectural setting often make the journey worthwhile. InstagramReddit

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