London theatre seating plans and seat tips
Her Majesty’s Theatre
Her Majesty’s Theatre is one of the oldest playhouses in London. The building has been redesigned many times, and is a Grade II listed building. T he French Renaissance design gives the theatre a gothic edge, making it a perfect home to its current tenant Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera since 1986. In 1994 the building was fully refurbished, including new bathrooms and easier audience access, and was recently installed with a new sound system to enhance the performance of one of the world’s most popular musicals.
Due to the age of the theatre the seating is in a more traditional layout over four tiers, and is relatively tall and narrow. Each seating block is shallow and parts are obstructed by pillars, rails and the overhang of each level. The Phantom of the Opera is a very visual show, and the set absorbs a large amount of the proscenium, both above the stage and to each side. It is especially important to consider the quality of the seat alongside the price, as seats at the top of the balcony and to the sides of the auditorium can be quite restricted.
TOTAL SEATING CAPACITY: 1161
Bargain Hunter!
The theatre has a number of seats which are ‘restricted view’ due to pillars. Some of these seats however are only slightly restricted, and it is possible to sit in such a way that you have a great view of the stage at a heavily reduced price!
Break The Bank!
The centre of the Stalls is an excellent place to sit for those who like surprises…
Seating Plan
Stalls (453 seats)
The Stalls feel relatively intimate unlike other West End venues, and are only separated by an aisle running halfway down the centre. Seats grow outward from the stage but have a maximum of 35 seats per row. The circle overhang is visible from the back half of the stalls and can cover some features of the performance, most notably the infamous ‘accident’ at the end of Act One. Best seats are either side of the aisle halfway back in the stalls.
Pillars create obstructed seats at the back of the stalls in rows N and P, and it is worth checking before purchasing if you do not want a restricted view seat. Aim to sit in-between the pillars rather than directly behind them or around them. Seat Plan has learned that a good bargain may be had by purchasing a restricted view seat at a reduced price, as it is possible to sit so it is not a problem.
Dress Circle (281 seats)
The Royal Circle has some excellent seats, most notably in the first six rows, nearest the centre. Because of the curve seats towards the ends of rows do become restricted, and this is reflected in the pricing structure. The section is split into three, with the central one offering the best overall view of the stage. Towards the back of each section however the overhang and pillars can create problems, and it is best to check before you book if this will be a problem. Pillars feature in row E, once in each side section and twice in the middle.
Upper Circle (324 seats)
The Upper Circle is again split into three sections with a large block shaped central section. All seats in the central area are priced the same, and are heavily raked for a fuller view of the stage. Seat Plan has had some trouble with leg room in this section however, as well as with tourists who wish to talk throughout the show... Slightly cheaper in price, seats to the left and right of the Upper Circle, (especially those towards the front) boast great views of the stage. Unlike other theatres the balcony does not overhang the Upper Circle, so does not create any problems obstructing the view.
Balcony (103 seats)
The Balcony in Her Majesty’s is not for the faint hearted. Set back from the Upper Circle rather than overhanging it, seats are raked and look sharply down onto the action. These seats are suitable for those wishing to see the show for cheap, but do not have a good sound or visual quality. Leg room is limited, and it can get hot during the summer. Seat Plan recommends paying that bit extra for the Upper Circle for a better experience, as it feels easily detached from the action. One redeeming feature however is the view of the Chandelier, and the ability to spot the Phantom in his movements around the auditorium.
Hi, paid top price for front row seats/ Seats B1 and 2. First expected to be second row back, but unfortunately not case, as NO row A, that is the orchestra.
The seating was so tight and had to get out every time someone wanted to come past as too small to pass without doing so.
Due to the wood panelling in front to hide the ‘Band’. there was no leg room. I am only 5’3″ tall with size 4 feet. I got backache and cramp and was wishing for interval so could stand up and stretch legs, my friend with me felt same. When you sat your feet hit the wood with no where to put them. If I was in ‘cheap’ seats may not feel so bad about it. There was also another problem, due to the nearest to the stage every time they did a fire or smoke explosion it came full blast to us, quite choking and if I’d had Asthma or lung condition would or could have been taken ill, felt like I was smoking hundred ‘fags’ on my own, and I dont smoke. Dont normally moan, but it does need addressing and cant find a complaint site, but have found address and will be sending my comments on. Hope this helps others avoid this seating so can enjoy what is a lovely show.