National Theatre (Olivier)

Capacity1150 Seats

Seating Tiers3 Levels

Venue SizeMedium

About The Venue

The Olivier Theatre is the largest of the National Theatre's three auditoriums, opened in 1976 as part of Denys Lasdun's iconic Brutalist complex on the South Bank. Named after Laurence Olivier, its unique drum-shaped design features a thrust stage, allowing for an intimate yet grand theatrical experience. This adaptable space is renowned for staging large-scale productions, from classical drama to contemporary works, making it a cornerstone of London's cultural landscape.

Seating

The Stalls form the lowest and largest seating section, directly facing the stage. The auditorium's distinctive fan-shape, designed by Denys Lasdun, ensures a wide, immersive view. The rake (slope) of the Stalls is significant, providing excellent sightlines over the heads of those in front, even from the rear rows. Views are generally excellent and direct, with central seats offering the most comprehensive perspective. Front rows (A-D) provide an intimate experience but may require looking up for action at the very top of the proscenium. Side seats towards the front may have a slightly angled view, but the wide stage design minimizes severe restrictions. Legroom is typically generous throughout, and seats are comfortable and upholstered. There are no pillars or structural obstructions, meaning restricted views are minimal, primarily limited to the very front rows potentially missing extreme top-stage action or extreme side seats having a slightly angled perspective.

Toilets

Gents and Ladies: Stalls (Level 2) and Circle (Level 3). Accessible: Level 1 (cloakroom area), Stalls (Level 2, on the way into the auditorium/corridor), and Circle (Level 3, on the way into the auditorium).

Bars

Olivier performance bars: Stalls and Circle foyers. Other bars within the National Theatre complex include Rennie's Bar (main foyer), The Understudy (riverside), Forza Wine (rooftop), and Lasdun restaurant bar.

Cloakroom

Location: Ground floor, opposite main lifts, next to the Bookshop. Cost: £1.50 per item; free for access equipment or medical supplies. Bags larger than 50 x 30 x 20cm must be left in the cloakroom.

Box Office

In-person booking: 10am-6pm, Monday to Saturday. General ticket collection: 9:30am-11pm, Monday to Saturday, at the main box office in the entrance foyer. Olivier specific ticket collection: Approximately one hour before performance starts at the box office on the second floor foyer.

Stage Door

Around the corner, near the Dorfman entrance (east side of the National Theatre building).

Location

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National Theatre, Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 9PX

Directions

The National Theatre (Olivier) is located on the South Bank. The nearest Tube station is Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines), which is approximately a 5-7 minute walk. Waterloo East is the nearest Overground station, also a short walk away. Numerous bus routes serve the South Bank area, with stops directly outside or very close to the theatre.