The National Theatre
A historic 1,672-seat theatre hosting touring Broadway musicals and public-service shows, known for spectacular productions.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better ticket availability
The National Theatre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better ticket availability

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1,672-seat theatre hosting touring Broadway musicals and public-service shows, known for spectacular productions.
"The National Theater's 'Broadway at the National' program is amazing. I can't imagine Broadway being much better, if at all."
🎯 Book 'Broadway at the National'
Look for the 'Broadway at the National' program for top touring shows. It's a highlight for many visitors!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You might do some walking to your seats or around the lobby. Comfortable footwear is always a good idea.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Broadway Touring Productions
Main Stage
Experience world-class touring Broadway musicals and plays, offering a taste of New York's iconic theatre scene.

Spectacular Stagecraft
Main Stage
Witness incredible stage design and special effects, particularly noted in shows like 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child'.

Intimate Seating Experience
Auditorium
Enjoy clear views from virtually any seat, thanks to the theater's thoughtful design that enhances the audience experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Secure Your Seats Early
Budget for Concessions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book 'Broadway at the National'
Look for the 'Broadway at the National' program for top touring shows. It's a highlight for many visitors!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You might do some walking to your seats or around the lobby. Comfortable footwear is always a good idea.
📱 Check Show Etiquette
Be mindful of theatre etiquette, like silencing phones and avoiding disruptive behavior during performances.
💰 Concessions are Pricey
Snacks and drinks are expensive. Consider eating beforehand or budgeting extra for them.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book 'Broadway at the National'
Look for the 'Broadway at the National' program for top touring shows. It's a highlight for many visitors!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You might do some walking to your seats or around the lobby. Comfortable footwear is always a good idea.
📱 Check Show Etiquette
Be mindful of theatre etiquette, like silencing phones and avoiding disruptive behavior during performances.
💰 Concessions are Pricey
Snacks and drinks are expensive. Consider eating beforehand or budgeting extra for them.
🎟️ Rush Ticket Strategy
For rush tickets, aim to be there just before 12:30 PM and refresh the page precisely at that time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The National Theatre for its excellent productions, particularly touring Broadway shows and visually stunning spectacles like 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child'. The venue's comfortable seating and clear sightlines are frequently highlighted as major positives, contributing to an overall fantastic experience.
"Just saw Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. It was excellent! Personally, a must see show. The acting is outstanding and stage sets unbelievably creative ! Plus it’s a fantastic venue with an amazing staff."
Joanne D
"National Theater's 'Broadway at the National' program is amazing. We've seen at least one show every year. Harry Potter's stage and special effects were spectacular. I can't imagine Broadway being much better, if at all."
Joshua Holman
"This place has a really homey feeling. The quality of seating is incredible. You can see anything from everywhere you sit. The reason I’m not giving it five stars is because the snacks and the drinks were astronomically expensive."
Hannah D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Theatre is accessible by various public transport options. Check local transit schedules for bus routes and subway lines that stop nearby. Parking can be limited and expensive, so public transport is often the most convenient choice for attending shows at the national theatre.
While some parking may be available, it's often limited and costly. It's advisable to research nearby parking garages or opt for public transportation to reach the national theatre.
Depending on your starting point, buses and subways are typically the most efficient ways to get to the national theatre. Consult your local transit app for the best routes.
Yes, drop-off points are usually available near the main entrance, making it convenient for those arriving by taxi or ride-share. This is a good option if you want to avoid parking hassles for shows at the national theatre.
The National Theatre strives to be accessible. Check their official website for specific details on accessible entrances, seating, and any available services for patrons with disabilities attending plays at the national theatre.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official National Theatre website, by phone, or in person at the box office. For popular shows like 'Angels in America the Play' or 'The Crucible National Theatre', booking in advance is highly recommended.
Yes, The National Theatre often offers rush tickets for select performances. These are typically released on the day of the show, so arriving early or checking their website for specific rush policies is advised.
Showtimes vary depending on the production. Most evening performances begin between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, with matinees often scheduled for afternoons on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Always check the specific show's schedule for exact times.
It's possible to get tickets on the day of the show, especially through rush ticket programs or if there are cancellations. However, for highly anticipated productions like 'Othello at the National Theatre', advance booking is strongly advised.
Latecomers are usually admitted during a suitable break in the performance to minimize disruption. However, policies can vary, so it's best to arrive on time to enjoy the entire show.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The National Theatre offers excellent seating with clear views from most locations. Many reviewers praise the quality of seating, noting that you can see anything from everywhere.
Yes, concessions are available, offering snacks and drinks. However, be aware that prices can be quite high, as noted by many visitors.
The National Theatre hosts a variety of performances, including touring Broadway musicals, plays, and special productions like 'Live from The National Theatre' screenings. You might see shows like 'The Crucible National Theatre' or 'The Seagull National Theatre'.
Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing the actors and audience. Check with theatre staff for specific policies regarding pre-show or intermission photos.
The atmosphere is typically electric and engaging, especially during popular shows. Audiences are often enthusiastic and appreciative of the performances, creating a memorable live theatre experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While The National Theatre offers concessions for snacks and drinks, it does not typically have full-service restaurants inside. However, there are often dining options available in the surrounding area.
Concessions usually include popcorn, candy, and beverages. For more substantial meals, it's best to dine at restaurants near the national theatre before or after your show.
Bringing outside food and beverages into the theatre is generally not permitted. It's best to consume any outside items before entering the auditorium.
The area surrounding The National Theatre is usually bustling with various dining establishments, offering a range of cuisines and price points. Exploring local options before or after a show is a great way to enhance your visit.
As mentioned by visitors, the snacks and drinks at The National Theatre can be quite expensive, so be prepared for higher prices compared to off-site options.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is typically allowed in the lobby and common areas before and after the show, but strictly prohibited inside the auditorium during performances. Always check signage or ask staff for clarification.
The theatre's architecture and lobby can offer some interesting photo opportunities. Capturing the grandeur of the venue before the show starts can be a great souvenir.
Shows with elaborate stagecraft and special effects, like 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child' or productions featured in 'NT Live', often provide visually stunning moments.
No, taking photos or videos of the stage during a performance is strictly forbidden and can lead to removal from the theatre. This is to ensure the best experience for all audience members and performers.
Official photos and promotional materials for shows at The National Theatre are usually available on their website and social media channels. These are great for appreciating the visual aspects of the productions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the theatre itself is welcoming, parents should be mindful of show content and runtime. For younger children, consider shows with shorter durations or those specifically marketed towards families. The high cost of concessions means packing some approved snacks or planning a meal before attending can help manage family budgets.
💰 Budget Travelers
Additionally, keep an eye out for any special promotions or lottery systems the theatre might offer for specific shows. While concessions are expensive, planning to dine at more affordable eateries nearby before or after the show can significantly cut down on overall expenses.
couples
Consider booking seats with excellent views for an enhanced experience. Afterwards, explore the surrounding area for dinner or drinks to cap off a perfect date night. The theatre's elegant atmosphere adds to the overall romantic ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring 'Live from The National Theatre'
These broadcasts often feature high-definition filming and surround sound, bringing the theatrical experience directly to viewers. For those unable to attend in person, 'NT Live' offers a fantastic opportunity to witness the talent and artistry of the National Theatre from afar. Some productions, like 'Nye' starring Michael Sheen, have even been made available for free online viewing for a limited time.
While 'NT Live' is primarily a cinema event, the spirit of bringing theatre to a wider audience is a core part of The National Theatre's mission. This commitment to accessibility extends to their in-person offerings, ensuring a rich and varied program for all theatre enthusiasts. The success of 'NT Live' has also inspired other theatres to explore similar broadcast or streaming options for their own productions.
Navigating Rush Tickets and Affordable Access
Reddit discussions reveal that the typical rush ticket release is around 12:30 PM. Travelers suggest saving the link to the ticketing page and refreshing precisely at the release time. While competition can be fierce, this method has proven effective for many in snagging affordable seats for shows like 'The Crucible National Theatre tickets' or 'Six at the National Theatre'.
Beyond rush tickets, The National Theatre may offer other discount programs or lottery systems for specific productions. It's always worth checking their official website or contacting the box office directly for the most up-to-date information on affordable access options for plays at the national theatre.
The Spectacle of 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child'
Reviewers highlight the unbelievable creativity of the stage sets and the overall excellence of the performance. It's often described as a must-see show, with many believing that Broadway itself couldn't offer much better. The immersive experience makes it a standout event for fans of the Harry Potter series and theatre-goers alike.
While the show itself is a major draw, the venue's fantastic atmosphere and amazing staff contribute to the overall positive experience. The combination of a captivating story, groundbreaking technical execution, and a welcoming environment makes 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child' a truly memorable theatrical event at The National Theatre.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit