Arcola Theatre

Capacity200 Seats

Seating Tiers2 Levels

Venue SizeIntimate

About The Venue

The Arcola Theatre, established in 2000, is a leading off-West End venue renowned for its innovative and diverse programming, championing new writing and international work. Housed in a converted industrial building in Dalston, it maintains an intimate, experimental atmosphere across its two main studios. The theatre is also a pioneer in sustainable theatre practices, notably through its Arcola Energy initiative. It serves as a vibrant cultural hub deeply embedded in its local community.

Seating

Arcola Theatre's primary performance space, Studio 1, is a highly versatile black box theatre designed for maximum flexibility. Seating capacity typically ranges from 120 to 200, depending on the production's configuration. The seating is often arranged as raked bleachers or individual chairs, allowing for various stage layouts including end-on, thrust, or in-the-round. Due to its flexible nature, there are no fixed architectural obstructions like pillars or balconies. Sightlines are generally excellent, though specific production designs (set pieces, lighting rigs) can occasionally create minor partial views for certain seats. Legroom is generally adequate but can vary slightly based on the specific seating arrangement for each show. The proximity to the stage is intimate, even in the furthest seats, ensuring an immersive experience.

Toilets

Gents, Ladies, and Accessible toilets on the lower level, accessible by lift from the foyer.

Bars

One bar, Arcola Bar, located within the theatre building, opens one hour before shows. Accessible by lift from the foyer.

Cloakroom

No cloakroom facilities. Large items may be left at the Box Office at your own risk for Studio 1 and Studio 2 shows.

Box Office

1pm-5pm, Monday-Saturday. For in-person ticket collection, available upon arrival for scheduled performances if e-tickets are not used.

Location

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Arcola Theatre, 24 Ashwin Street, Dalston, London, E8 3DL

Directions

The Arcola Theatre is located in Dalston, East London. The nearest Overground stations are Dalston Kingsland and Dalston Junction, both within a 5-10 minute walk. From Dalston Kingsland, exit onto Kingsland High Street, turn left, and Ashwin Street is a short walk down on your right. From Dalston Junction, exit onto Dalston Lane, turn right, and Ashwin Street will be on your left. Numerous bus routes serve the area, including the 149, 243, 67, 76, 488, 242, 30, 38, 56, and 277.

At this Venue

Past Productions

Musical