The Lion King

The Lyceum is a building of outstanding national importance, architecturally and theatrically. It is also a grade II listed building, originally designed by Samuel Beazley in 1834.

In 1840, Balfe undertook the production of National Opera, but despite its excellent chances of success, this enterprise was a failure.

In 1871, Henry Irving took over the theatre, and with his memorable performance in "The Bells" in that year, the Lyceum entered into a new Lease of life. "The Bells," with Irving as the ghost-haunted burgomaster, played to overflowing houses for 150 nights. His next success was in "Charles I," in the following year, which ran for 180 nights. This was followed by "Hamlet," in which Irving's popularity reached its greatest height. This great actor was associated with the Lyceum for over 25 years and one of his first acts as manager was to engage Ellen Terry for his productions.

The Crewe interior is post-Irving and was intended to be a variety house to compete with the Palace and the London Coliseum but it was not a success in this mode and soon reverted to drama. It was purchased by the LCC in 1939 for demolition in connection with a road improvement, later abandoned.

Leased to Mecca, it became a ballroom. The abolition of the GLC in 1986 led to a period of darkness and uncertainty, during which the London Residuary Body sold a 125-year lease to Brent Walker before transferring the freehold to The Theatres Trust. They eventually negotiated a transfer of Brent Walker's unexpired term to Apollo leisure, who set about works of restoration and improvement. The theatre reopened in 1996 as a home for largescale musicals.

Travel directions

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Take the Piccadilly Line to Covent Garden station and exit into the piazza. The theatre is approximately 10 minutes walk.

Nearest underground station: Covent Garden

Nearest train station: Charing Cross

Buses: 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 77A, 91, 139, 176