A view from the loge
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Criterion Theatre

4.7
·286 reviews·Bar Harbor, United States

A beautifully restored 1932 Art Deco theatre in London's West End, offering a mix of musicals, live performances, and classic film screenings.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Best for live shows

CrowdMedium
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A view from the loge

Criterion Theatre

Best Time

Evenings

Best for live shows

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautifully restored 1932 Art Deco theatre in London's West End, offering a mix of musicals, live performances, and classic film screenings.

4.7
(286 reviews)

"Gorgeous theater with fantastic sound and projection quality, a true historic landmark."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Popular shows like 'Titanique' sell out fast! Book your Criterion Theatre tickets in advance online.

✨ Admire the Art Deco

Take time to soak in the gorgeous 1932 Art Deco interior. It's a historic landmark worth appreciating.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.7 · 286 reviews

Type

Movie Theater

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Titanique Musical

Titanique Musical

Main Stage

A hilarious, campy parody of the iconic film Titanic, featuring Celine Dion hits and improv.

Art Deco Interior

Art Deco Interior

Auditorium

Step back in time in this stunningly restored 1932 theatre with its gorgeous architectural details.

Live Music & Performances

Live Music & Performances

Main Stage

Experience a diverse range of live acts, from country music to theatrical productions.

Classic Film Screenings

Classic Film Screenings

Main Auditorium

Enjoy Hollywood classics and silent films in a historic setting with excellent sound and projection.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

The Criterion Theatre hosts a variety of performances, from musicals like 'Titanique' to live music. Popular shows sell out quickly, so booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Check the theatre's schedule online.

Support a Historic Gem

This beautifully restored 1932 Art Deco theatre is a historic landmark. Visiting for a movie or a live performance is a great way to support its continued operation and preservation. Many visitors emphasize the importance of supporting this institution.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Best for live shows
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Matinee performances & films
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Quieter film screenings
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I regret not getting the blueberry butter knife 🫐 #newengland #acadianationalpark #barharbor #maine #coastalgrandmother #cottagecore #souvenir #shoppingvlog #beehivetrail #lobstersweater #patches #collectibles #travel
@haileyvanwordragen
31K likes • 252.2K views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Popular shows like 'Titanique' sell out fast! Book your Criterion Theatre tickets in advance online. Instagram+1

✨ Admire the Art Deco

Take time to soak in the gorgeous 1932 Art Deco interior. It's a historic landmark worth appreciating. Reddit

Sing along at @titaniquemusical on 2/22/25 🚢 . . . #broadway #titaniquemusical #titanique #offbroadway #titanic #myheartwillgoon #celinedion #criteriontheatre #titaniqueuk #westend #westendtheatre #london #uk
brisuschristsuperstar
128 likes • 3.3K views
The hilarious @realmattlucas joins in the improv scene with @_laurendrew1 in London's @criterion_theatre 🚢💦 #TitaniqueUK
titaniquemusical
6.3K likes • 267.2K views

🎶 Check the Schedule

The Criterion hosts movies, musicals, and live music. See what's on at the Criterion Theatre Piccadilly Circus. TikTokInstagram

🍻 Support the Venue

Consider your ticket purchase a donation to keep this historic gem running. Prices can feel high but support the cause. Reddit

Just got out of Titanique at the Criterion Theatre and honestly… it was absolutely fabulous! 🎭💅🏻 Camp, chaotic and totally hilarious from start to finish, the cast were fabulous. I don’t think I stopped laughing the whole way through. Proper feel-good fun, I loved every second! 🚢 🌊 #Titanique #CriterionTheatre #TitaniqueLondon #WestEndVibes #CelineWouldBeProud #Celinedion #CampAsChristmas #The...
mattwestonedwards
11 likes • 572 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Popular shows like 'Titanique' sell out fast! Book your Criterion Theatre tickets in advance online. Instagram+1

✨ Admire the Art Deco

Take time to soak in the gorgeous 1932 Art Deco interior. It's a historic landmark worth appreciating. Reddit

🎶 Check the Schedule

The Criterion hosts movies, musicals, and live music. See what's on at the Criterion Theatre Piccadilly Circus. TikTokInstagram

🍻 Support the Venue

Consider your ticket purchase a donation to keep this historic gem running. Prices can feel high but support the cause. Reddit

📍 Prime Piccadilly Location

Conveniently located near Piccadilly Circus, making it easy to combine with other West End activities. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(286 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Criterion Theatre for its stunning Art Deco architecture and intimate atmosphere, making it a beloved historic landmark. The quality of both live performances and film screenings, along with friendly staff, earns high marks. Some find the price of domestic canned beers a bit steep, viewing it more as a donation to support the venue.

"Gorgeous Art Deco style theater. What a pleasure to see a silent film in this historic landmark. Everyone should visit the criterion for a movie or a show to support this important institution!!!"

Alyssa D.

"This theater is an absolutely gorgeous historical building with a great selection of movies and live shows. The staff are friendly. The bathrooms are clean. And the prices are stellar. Definitely check this place out if you're in the area!"

A B

"Beautiful theater with fantastic sound and projection quality as well as helpful, engaged and welcoming staff - first rate!"

Earl Marsh

What People Like

Gorgeous Art Deco interior
Historic landmark status
Friendly and helpful staff

What People Dislike

Price of canned beer

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Criterion Theatre is located at Piccadilly Circus, London. The nearest tube station is Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines). Many bus routes also serve the area. Instagram

On-street parking is very limited and expensive in this central London location. It's best to use public transport or a taxi. The closest car parks are NCP London Brewer Street and Q-Park Piccadilly Circus. Instagram

Public transport is highly recommended due to the central location and traffic. The Piccadilly Circus tube station is right on its doorstep. Instagram

Yes, taxis can drop you off directly outside the theatre on Piccadilly Circus. Instagram

Absolutely! It's directly connected to Piccadilly Circus station, making it incredibly accessible via the London Underground. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased directly from the official Criterion Theatre website, authorized ticket agents, or at the box office. Booking in advance is advised for popular shows. Instagram+1

Opening hours vary depending on performances and film screenings. It's best to check the specific schedule for the date you plan to visit. TikTok

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

Concessions may be available for certain performances, such as for students, seniors, or groups. Check the theatre's website or contact the box office for details. Reddit

Refund policies vary by performance and ticket agent. Generally, tickets are non-refundable unless a performance is cancelled. Review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase. Reddit

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The Criterion Theatre hosts a diverse range of events, including musicals (like the popular 'Titanique'), live music, comedy, and classic film screenings. TikTokInstagram+1

The Criterion Theatre has an intimate seating capacity, contributing to its unique atmosphere. Specific numbers can be found on seating charts when booking. Instagram

Yes, the Criterion Theatre is air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience even during warmer months. Instagram

Visitors often describe the atmosphere as intimate and magical, thanks to its stunning Art Deco design and excellent acoustics. InstagramReddit

Yes, its prime location in the heart of the West End means there are numerous restaurants and bars offering pre-theatre dining options nearby. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography and videography are generally not permitted during performances or film screenings to avoid disturbing other audience members and for copyright reasons. Check with staff for specific policies. Instagram

The exterior architecture and the stunning Art Deco interior are fantastic for photos before or after a show. Capture the grandeur of the entrance and auditorium. Reddit

No, flash photography is strictly prohibited during performances and screenings. It can be distracting and damage sensitive equipment. Instagram

Typically, no photos of the stage or performance are allowed during the show. Always adhere to the theatre's guidelines. Instagram

Absolutely! The theatre's location on Piccadilly Circus offers iconic London backdrops, including the famous circus lights. Instagram

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