The front of the theatre
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Electric Theatre

4.5
·301 reviews·, United Kingdom

A charming arts venue in Guildford, offering comedy, music, family shows, and films with a riverside cafe/bar.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wednesday afternoons

Vegan falafel cafe project

CrowdLow
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The front of the theatre

Electric Theatre

Best Time

Wednesday afternoons

Vegan falafel cafe project

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming arts venue in Guildford, offering comedy, music, family shows, and films with a riverside cafe/bar.

4.5
(301 reviews)

"A great little theatre, totally recommended as a venue. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

💳 Card Payments Only at Bar

The bar primarily accepts card payments, so be prepared. :credit_card:

🚶‍♀️ Short Walk from Station

Conveniently located about a 5-minute walk from the train station. :train2:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Riverside Cafe & Bar

Riverside Cafe & Bar

Adjacent to the theatre

Enjoy a drink or a bite with scenic river views before or after a show.

Reddit
Intimate Performance Space

Intimate Performance Space

Auditorium

Experience live acts up close in this cozy, well-laid-out theatre.

Reddit
Diverse Live Entertainment

Diverse Live Entertainment

Main Stage

From comedy and music to family shows and local talent, there's always something happening.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Check Showtimes & Book Ahead

The Electric Theatre hosts a variety of performances, from comedy and music to family shows and local productions. Popular events can sell out, so it's wise to check the schedule and book tickets in advance, especially for weekend or evening performances. Instagram

Arrive Early for Riverside Vibes

The venue boasts a riverside cafe/bar, perfect for pre-show drinks or a relaxed meal. Arriving a bit early allows you to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the scenic views before your performance begins. Reddit

Best Times

When
Wednesday afternoons
Why
Vegan falafel cafe project
Crowd
Low
When
Evening performances
Why
Live music & comedy
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend matinees
Why
Family-friendly shows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#stitch with @firstelectric theatre is meant for the marginalized, and being an exploitative performative asshole is the antithesis of that.
@illbetheartist
33.2K likes • 91.3K views

💳 Card Payments Only at Bar

The bar primarily accepts card payments, so be prepared. Reddit :credit_card:

🚶‍♀️ Short Walk from Station

Conveniently located about a 5-minute walk from the train station. Reddit :train2:

Digital Flower Garden Coming To You Soon … 🌺 #vfx #cg #3d #animation #vfxart #digitalart #flowergarden @electric.theatre.collective @etc.colour @electricstudios.tv @vlastagram @giles_etc @ryan.knowles.electric @gregorymckneally @davidfilipe @jasoncolourist @michalisanthis @750_mph @twentybelowmusic
electric_theatre_collective
201 likes • 3.7K views
NEW immersive art installation at Waterworks 🎪 For a limited time, experience Electric Theatre by @philippeblanchardart, a fabric immersive installation that explores how animation and moving images can be experienced beyond a two dimensional screen. 🚪Open DAILY from 11AM-10PM 👋Free admission | on site until June 1 📍follow signs for the West Annex See you there.
waterworksto
124 likes • 7.7K views

🎭 Volunteers are Helpful

The theatre is staffed by friendly volunteers who are happy to assist. Reddit :bustsinsilhouette:

✨ Check for Special Events

Look out for unique events like immersive art installations. Instagram :sparkles:

Today we are at @theelectrictheatreguildford ⚡️💫👑 We’re bringing the enchantment of Sleeping Beauty to the Electric Theatre, Guildford, and we want YOU to be part of this magical journey! Don’t miss out on a day of wonder and adventure. Join us for a day you’ll never forget! 👸✨💫 #SleepingBeautyAtElectricTheatre #MagicalMoments #JoinUs #SleepingBeautyOnTour #KidsBalletShow #KidsEntertainment #Fa...
letsalldance_official
48 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💳 Card Payments Only at Bar

The bar primarily accepts card payments, so be prepared. Reddit :credit_card:

🚶‍♀️ Short Walk from Station

Conveniently located about a 5-minute walk from the train station. Reddit :train2:

🎭 Volunteers are Helpful

The theatre is staffed by friendly volunteers who are happy to assist. Reddit :bustsinsilhouette:

✨ Check for Special Events

Look out for unique events like immersive art installations. Instagram :sparkles:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(301 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Electric Theatre for its intimate atmosphere, friendly staff, and diverse programming, making it a beloved local venue. While some lament its potential closure, many highlight the enjoyable experience of seeing shows up close and the pleasant riverside cafe. Occasional issues with card-only payments at the bar are noted, but overall, it's seen as a great spot for live entertainment. InstagramReddit

"I am devastated it is closing down. I have 3 kids under 5 and we were going to several shows a year, as many as we could really. What a great place. What a shame."

Fredrick

"It's a great venue. This visit we actually sat in the bar area to watch the wonderful Charlie Dore, who was as lovely and talented as ever.
The Electric Theatre's staff and volunteers are great and they serve decent, locally brewed beer. :-)"

James Heaphy

"A small theatre, about a 5 minute walk from the station.
The theatre has a small bar (when I visited, they only took card payments) with a few table and chairs dotted around.
The ladies' toilets were very clean (always a good sign!).
The theatre had quite a few volunteers staffing the auditorium, who were very helpful and informative. The theatre itself, although small, was well laid out, and I found it comfortable. We were in the second row, so very close to the performers, as the stage is quite small.
The performance was by a group called Zervas and Pepper, who were brilliant."

Susanna

What People Like

Intimate performance space
Friendly staff & volunteers
Riverside cafe/bar

What People Dislike

Card-only bar payments

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Electric Theatre is conveniently located in Guildford, just a 5-minute walk from the train station, making it easily accessible by public transport. Reddit If driving, check local parking options as the venue itself may have limited parking. TikTok

While the theatre itself may have limited parking, there are several public car parks in Guildford town centre, a short walk away. It's advisable to check local council websites for the most up-to-date parking information. Reddit

Yes, Guildford town centre is well-served by local bus routes, and the Electric Theatre is within easy walking distance of many bus stops. Check local bus timetables for routes serving the town centre. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can typically be purchased online through the Electric Theatre's official website, or in person at the venue's box office. It's recommended to book in advance for popular shows. Instagram

The theatre's opening hours can vary depending on scheduled performances and events. The riverside cafe/bar is often open during the day, and the auditorium opens shortly before showtimes. Check their website for specific hours. Reddit

The Electric Theatre aims to be accessible. It's best to contact the venue directly to discuss specific accessibility needs, such as wheelchair access or seating arrangements. Reddit

Refund policies can vary. Generally, tickets are non-refundable unless a performance is cancelled by the venue. It's advisable to review the specific terms and conditions at the time of booking. Reddit

Concession prices may be available for certain shows, often for students, seniors, or children. Check the individual event listings on the Electric Theatre's website for details on eligibility and pricing. Reddit

🎫 🎦 Onsite Experience

The Electric Theatre hosts a diverse range of performances including comedy, live music, family shows, ballet, and local productions. Instagram+1

Yes, there is a riverside cafe/bar that serves drinks and snacks. They also run a cafe project on Wednesdays featuring vegan falafel wraps. Reddit

The theatre is described as small but well-laid-out, offering comfortable seating. Some seats, like those in the second row, provide a very close view of the performers due to the small stage. Reddit

Generally, photography and videography are not permitted during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. Check with venue staff for specific policies. Instagram

The atmosphere is often described as lovely and intimate, with helpful staff and volunteers contributing to a welcoming experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

While photography during performances is restricted, the riverside location offers pleasant views for photos. Some art installations, like the 'Digital Flower Garden' concept, might offer visual inspiration. InstagramReddit

The Electric Theatre has hosted various events, including those with a retro or artistic flair, such as ballet performances with an 80s aesthetic. Instagram The venue itself can be a subject for architectural photography, especially its riverside setting. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

The Electric Theatre is a fantastic spot for families, often featuring dedicated children's shows and matinee performances. Instagram The intimate setting ensures that even young children can have a great view of the stage. Reddit Arriving a little early allows kids to get comfortable and perhaps enjoy a snack from the cafe before the show begins. Reddit

Parents often praise the venue for its welcoming atmosphere for families. Reddit It's advisable to check the specific age recommendations for each show to ensure it's suitable for your children. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for popular family events. Instagram

🎶 Music & Comedy Enthusiasts

For those who love live music and comedy, the Electric Theatre is a must-visit. It regularly hosts a variety of musicians, from local bands to touring acts, and comedians delivering stand-up sets. InstagramReddit The venue's acoustics and close proximity to the stage create an engaging experience for music lovers and comedy fans alike. Reddit

Check the 'What's On' section of their website frequently, as the lineup can be diverse and exciting. InstagramReddit The bar area is also a great place to mingle with fellow fans before or after the show. Reddit

🎨 Art & Culture Aficionados

While primarily a performance venue, the Electric Theatre occasionally hosts unique art installations and cultural events that appeal to art lovers. Instagram+1 These can offer a different perspective on how art can be experienced, moving beyond traditional gallery settings. Instagram Keep an eye on their schedule for any special exhibitions or immersive art projects. Instagram

The venue's commitment to diverse programming means it can also be a place to discover new forms of artistic expression, whether through theatre, dance, or visual arts. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Electric Theatre's Community Role

The Electric Theatre is more than just a performance venue; it's a hub for the local community. It actively supports local productions and artists, providing a platform for emerging talent. This commitment to local arts is a key part of its identity, making it a cherished spot for residents. InstagramReddit

Beyond scheduled shows, the theatre engages the community through initiatives like its Wednesday cafe project, offering a relaxed space for people to connect and enjoy local food. Reddit This focus on community involvement is often highlighted by visitors who appreciate the venue's welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. TikTok

Experiencing Immersive Art

The Electric Theatre has been known to host unique and immersive art installations. For instance, an installation by Philippe Blanchard explored how animation and moving images could be experienced beyond a traditional screen, using fabric to create an immersive environment. Instagram These temporary exhibitions offer a different dimension to the venue, attracting visitors interested in contemporary art and innovative visual experiences. Instagram

These types of installations often encourage visitor interaction and provide a visually stimulating environment, making them popular for social media sharing. Instagram+1 While not a permanent feature, keeping an eye on the venue's schedule for such special events can lead to memorable and unique experiences. Instagram

A Venue for Diverse Performances

The Electric Theatre prides itself on its eclectic programming, catering to a wide range of tastes. Visitors can expect anything from stand-up comedy and live music gigs to family-friendly theatre productions and classical performances. Instagram+1 The intimate size of the venue means that audiences often feel a strong connection with the performers, regardless of the genre. Reddit

This variety makes it a go-to destination for entertainment in Guildford. Whether you're looking for a night out with friends, a family outing, or a solo cultural experience, the Electric Theatre likely has something to offer. InstagramReddit The venue's commitment to showcasing both established acts and local talent ensures a dynamic and engaging calendar of events. Instagram

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