When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Saville Theatre
Why Saville Theatre is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Saville Theatre, located at 135 Shaftesbury Avenue in the London Borough of Camden, is a historic venue steeped in cultural significance and architectural beauty. Originally opened in 1931, the theatre boasts an Art Deco design by architect A E Fournier, featuring the renowned Gilbert Bayes frieze ‘Drama through the Ages’ on its façade. It quickly became one of the largest and most successful theatres in the West End, hosting regular plays and musicals through to the 1960s. In the mid-1960s, under the ownership of Beatles manager Brian Epstein, the Saville Theatre transformed into a vibrant music venue. It was a key scene of the Swinging Sixties, welcoming legendary performers such as Jimi Hendrix, The Who, Pink Floyd, Elton John, and The Beatles themselves. This rich heritage makes it an exceptional meeting place, combining historic charm with a lively, artistic past. Plans are underway to restore the Saville Theatre to its original theatrical function, alongside a boutique hotel operated by citizenM, making the venue a splendid destination for friends seeking cultural entertainment in a uniquely iconic setting. This blend of historical atmosphere, architectural elegance, and top-tier performances will make it an outstanding place for social gatherings and arts appreciation in London’s bustling Theatreland.
Here's what people think of Saville Theatre
As of recent, Saville Theatre holds a 4.7-star rating based on 37 reviews.
Reviewers consistently rate the Saville Theatre highly, with an average rating of 4.7 from 37 reviews, reflecting a strong overall appreciation of its historic value and cultural importance. Positive reviews praise the venue’s acoustics and ambiance, often highlighting its Art Deco architecture and the nostalgic vibe that connects visitors to the golden era of London theatre and music. Many express excitement about the theatre’s planned restoration and the return of live performances, viewing it as a valuable addition to London's vibrant arts scene. Furthermore, visitors note that the venue’s location in the heart of the West End adds to its appeal, surrounded by numerous restaurants and other entertainment options that enhance the overall experience of meeting up with friends. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to the closure of the cinema that once occupied the building and some concerns about the redevelopment process potentially altering the historic character of the site. A few users also express disappointment that the theatre has been closed for live events for several decades, limiting current access to its cultural offerings. In summary, while there are concerns about change and accessibility during redevelopment, the overwhelming sentiment is one of anticipation and appreciation for the venue’s heritage and its potential future as a premier theatrical destination in London.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
David
Nice little theater. Cushy seats but a bit narrow. Bathrooms were a disaster. Small. Super Loud fan. One seat and two urinals. No bar or concessions. Parking is close. Nice view of the city.
John Monte
I have been attending all live theatre productions here for 4 years. It is a breath of fresh air! Instead of movies or streaming treat yourself and 'go live'...you will not regret it! After, the actors all come out to the lobby for meet & greet - an awesome opportunity to interact with these aspiring talent. Bonus #1 - free parking in Lot ,8 just below the theatre. Bonus #2...great Sushi place and bar right across the street!
Jaxon Travis
Seats were a bit small and not the most comfortable but it’s a college play house so I did not expect much more. Great cast and crew for a great show, definitely support the local arts by coming out here for a show! Water fountain was out of order and face masks/vaccination card(or digital card) are required.
Teribaby Stewart
Theater seating Nice place for shairing topics, lessons or history.
Chris S.
I've been running shows here for a few years, and the theater itself is beautiful, stylistically much older, and has many cool features that have not been changed for years. It's perfect for an intimate show, only having nearly 300 seats.
How to reach Saville Theatre
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Why Saville Theatre may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying at the Saville Theatre with your friends promises an unforgettable experience rooted in a rich cultural history and a vibrant atmosphere. This iconic venue, rated an impressive 4.7 from 37 reviews, provides the perfect blend of classic charm and modern comfort, making it ideal for group meetups. Why choose the Saville? Because it offers more than just a space; it cultivates a sense of shared enjoyment and cultural engagement, bringing together friends or family in a setting brimming with artistic legacy and lively entertainment options. Whether you’re theatre enthusiasts, music lovers, or simply seeking a distinctive place to congregate, the Saville's spacious design, excellent acoustics, and inviting lounges encourage relaxed socializing before, during, and after shows. Additionally, its prime location in London’s West End ensures you have easy access to a variety of dining, shopping, and nightlife experiences nearby, extending your meetup into an all-encompassing day or evening out. This venue’s nostalgic aura, combined with ongoing plans for exciting redevelopment, means you and your friends get to enjoy a space that honors tradition while eagerly embracing fresh, innovative entertainment opportunities.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at the Saville Theatre?
The Saville Theatre offers a broad range of activities that perfectly suit group gatherings. Historically, it has been a hub for both theatrical productions and music performances, with a unique history of hosting legendary acts like Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, and Fleetwood Mac. This means when you visit, you are stepping into a venue steeped in live music heritage, adding an inspiring backdrop to any outing with friends. Today, the theatre operates primarily as a cinema, providing a contemporary entertainment option where you can enjoy the latest films in a setting that maintains its historic grandeur. The building itself is designed with comfort in mind—the absence of pillars ensures unobstructed views from every seat, while the expansive saloon bar underneath the auditorium creates a welcoming space to meet and chat before or after the main event. Beyond performances and films, ongoing redevelopment plans aim to reintroduce live theatre and spectacular shows, including the possibility of Cirque du Soleil taking up a permanent residence here, which will expand the range of high-quality entertainment on offer. This evolving variety of activities means your group can enjoy both traditional cultural events and dazzling new productions, all within an environment that encourages shared experiences and lively conversation.
Why is the Saville Theatre perfect for group meetups?
The Saville Theatre is uniquely suited for hosting groups due to its spacious and thoughtfully designed interiors that foster social interaction. From the moment you enter, the atmosphere invites relaxation and camaraderie. The venue's large chorus and practice rooms historically catered to performers but now provide ample circulation space, avoiding crowding—a big advantage when meeting with a group. Central heating and comfortable seating ensure that everyone stays cozy throughout the event, no matter the weather outside. Additionally, the strategically designed saloon bar spreads across the entire front of house, establishing an expansive area ideal for mingling and socializing away from the performance space but still within the buzzing venue. The theatre’s 4.7-star rating reflects its consistently positive guest experiences, which often mention how the venue’s design promotes a sense of connection and enjoyment among attendees. Finally, its location in the heart of London’s entertainment district means your group has easy access to restaurants, cafes, and nightlife both before and after your event, supporting a full evening of socializing and celebration in one cohesive area.
What makes the Saville Theatre’s atmosphere unique and engaging?
A key element that sets the Saville Theatre apart is its blend of historic elegance and contemporary functionality, creating a charming yet comfortable atmosphere for guests. Opened in 1930, its architectural design includes luxurious velvet interiors, elegant plaster carvings, and a grand proscenium stage surrounded by deep balconies—details that lend the venue a distinctive old-world charm. Yet, innovative design choices like the absence of pillars ensure clear sightlines for every seat, an aspect often highlighted in reviews praising the theatre’s thoughtful architecture. This means your friends can all share the experience equally, without worries about blocked views. The lounge and bar areas have been described as so comfortable that audiences sometimes don’t want to leave, illustrating the inviting, cozy vibe that encourages lingering in good company. The theatre's excellent acoustics contribute to immersive, high-quality sound whether you’re watching a live show or a film, enhancing the overall sensory experience for your group. This combination of historic beauty and modern comforts makes meeting at the Saville Theatre a memorable occasion worth repeating.
How does the venue’s history add value to your visit with friends?
Gathering at the Saville Theatre is about more than seeing a show or film; it is about being part of a storied legacy of entertainment and culture. Over its near-century existence, the venue has hosted some of the world’s most iconic music acts and theatrical productions, from the Rolling Stones and Chuck Berry to pioneering rock performances by The Who and Fleetwood Mac. These legendary moments lend the space an aura of significance and excitement that adds depth to your visit. Sharing stories and imagining the historic atmospheres created by generations of performers enhances the social bonding experience for groups. Moreover, the venue’s transition from theatre to cinema and now back toward live performance with ambitious redevelopment plans signals a commitment to cultural revival that your group can witness and enjoy firsthand. This makes every meetup here feel like participating in a living narrative, connecting past and present entertainment artistry in a welcoming environment. The Saville is not just a place to meet—it’s a destination where history, culture, and friendship converge.
What future developments should groups anticipate at the Saville Theatre?
The future of the Saville Theatre promises even more compelling reasons to choose it as your gathering spot. Yoo Capital's recently announced redevelopment plans include bringing live performances back to this beloved venue with updated accommodation and dining options that will enhance visitor comfort and convenience. Significantly, Cirque du Soleil is considering the Saville as its first permanent UK home, which could transform the theatre into a hub of spectacular, world-class entertainment. This partnership suggests that groups will soon enjoy a mix of innovative circus shows alongside traditional plays and concerts, broadening the repertoire and making each visit unique. The planned modernizations aim to preserve the theatre's historic charm while integrating cutting-edge technology and design, ensuring audiences of all tastes and interests will find something enchanting to experience. As these exciting changes unfold, meeting at the Saville will not only be about enjoying great performances but also about witnessing the evolution of a cultural landmark that continually refreshes its appeal for future generations.
In conclusion, the Saville Theatre is an exceptional venue for group meetups due to its rich history, diverse entertainment options, architectural excellence, and upcoming redevelopment plans. Whether you gather with friends or family, the Saville offers a unique blend of comfort, culture, and excitement that elevates any social occasion into a memorable celebration.