UK Travel Guide

Theatres
Back

Coliseum Theatre

Originally opened as a variety house in 1904, the Coliseum (London's largest theatre) was designed by Frank Matcham at the behest of Oswald Stoll, an Australian-born Irishman who had been running the family's music hall in Liverpool since the age of 14. Boasting the first revolving stage in Great Britain, and the first to provide lifts to the upper parts of the building, patrons were able to see such diverse acts as The American Sisters Meredith' singing an Indian love song, and a Derby finale featuring real horses. In 1931, as a result of the decline in popularity of vaudeville, the Coliseum turned to musical comedy and enjoyed much distinction for the the next 30 years until this form of entertainment also lost favour with the patrons. After a brief and unsuccessful period as a cinema during which time Cinerama equipment was installed, it reopened as a theatre in 1968 and in 1974 became the home of the English National Opera. In line with their policy the ENO continues to perform old and new operas in English.

Located at: St Martin's Lane, London, WC2

Telephone: 020 7632 8300

Opens: Phone for details

Cost: Varies according to production. Please phone for d

Closest Subway Station: Charing Cross Station (Click to see more atrraction at this station)