
The Fortune Theatre, opened in 1924, is one of London's most intimate and charming venues, known for its distinctive Art Deco interior. Designed by Ernest Schaufelberg, it offers a unique, close-up theatrical experience. Despite its small size, it has hosted a variety of acclaimed productions, including a 33-year run of "The Woman in Black" that made it one of the West End's longest-running plays before the show closed in 2023. Its compact design continues to ensure an immersive atmosphere for every audience member.
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Seating
- StallsGround level, great from D back. Front rows (A-C) mean a high stage and neck strain.
- Dress CircleThe prime viewing level: excellent elevated perspective, comprehensive stage picture.
- Upper CircleThe budget choice: distant bird's-eye views, steep climb, and tightest legroom.
Stalls
On the ground floor, directly from the foyer, the Stalls offer an immersive experience. The stage is set quite high, so be warned: rows A-C require a significant upward gaze that can get uncomfortable during longer performances.
A moderate rake generally provides decent sightlines from row D backwards. Legroom is adequate, but taller patrons, especially in the central block, might find it tight.
Views from the central block (rows D-M) are excellent. Side blocks, particularly in the front, may have a slightly restricted view of the extreme stage edges, though this is usually minor in this intimate theatre.
There are no central aisles; reaching central seats means passing by other seated people.
Dress Circle
Up a flight of stairs from the foyer on the first floor, the Dress Circle is often considered the prime viewing area for this intimate theatre. This level offers an excellent elevated perspective, providing a comprehensive view of the entire stage picture without feeling too far back.
A good rake ensures clear sightlines over heads. Legroom is similar to the Stalls – generally adequate but potentially restrictive for taller individuals, particularly in the front rows (A-C).
The circle's gentle curve means side seats (e.g., A1-3, A20-22) avoid severe side-on views, though you might miss extreme stage left/right action. The safety rail in the very front row (Row A) is low enough for most adults, but shorter patrons might find it a minor obstruction.
Upper Circle
A further flight of stairs leads you to the second-floor Upper Circle, significantly higher and further back than the Dress Circle. This level offers a more distant, bird's-eye view of the stage.
The rake is steeper than lower levels, beneficial for seeing over heads, though the descent can feel quite steep. Legroom is generally most restricted on this level, particularly in the front rows, and can be uncomfortable for longer durations.
Central block views are clear, but the stage appears smaller, and details may be harder to discern compared to lower levels. Side seats can have slightly more angled views due to the distance and curve, but you won't find any significant obstructions like pillars.
The safety rail in the front row (Row A) is generally not an issue for adults. This level typically offers the most budget-friendly tickets, though at the expense of proximity and potentially comfort.
See the view from your seat
SeatPlan has photographs taken from individual seats at the Fortune Theatre, alongside a full seating plan and reviews from people who sat there. Worth a look before you commit to a restricted-view seat.
View seat photos and planAffiliate link — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
Staying nearby
The nearest hotels to the Fortune Theatre, for anyone travelling in for a show rather than heading home after it.
- Strand Palaceabout 5 min walk
- The Z Hotel Covent Gardenabout 5 min walk
- Zedwell Tottenham Court Roadabout 15 min walk
Hotels.com affiliate links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Prices and availability are shown on their site.
Facilities
Toilets
| Gents | Ladies | Access. | Neutral | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stalls | Gents on Stalls | Ladies on Stalls | No Accessible on Stalls | No Gender-neutral on Stalls |
| Dress Circle | No Gents on Dress Circle | Ladies on Dress Circle | Accessible on Dress Circle | Gender-neutral on Dress Circle |
| Upper Circle | Gents on Upper Circle | Ladies on Upper Circle | No Accessible on Upper Circle | No Gender-neutral on Upper Circle |
The accessible toilet is on the Dress Circle level, beside the side fire exit on the Crown Court side, or next to Box A.
Cloakroom facilities are limited, and large bags or rucksacks may be refused.
Ticket collection opens one hour before the performance.
Location
Russell Street, London WC2B 5HH
Getting there
nearest first
- 3 min
Covent Garden
Piccadilly - 5 min
Leicester Square
NorthernPiccadilly
Bus stops on Aldwych and Kingsway.
Step-by-step walking directions
The Fortune Theatre is located on Russell Street. The nearest Tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line), approximately a 3-minute walk, and Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Lines), approximately a 5-minute walk. Numerous bus routes serve the surrounding area, with stops on Aldwych and Kingsway.

