The Soho curtain call
Perfecting your pre and post-show ritual
At the heart of Soho lies the famous Theatreland, a glittering cluster of iconic venues that have entertained audiences for generations. For many, a trip to the West End is a cherished regular occurrence; it’s a chance for them to escape into a world of storytelling and spectacle.
But the magic of a West End show isn’t just about what happens on stage—it’s about the entire experience, from the pre-show buzz to the post-show celebrations. We’ll show you how to perfect your theatrical day out, from start to finish.
The warmup: A pre-show bottomless brunch in Soho
The journey begins before you even take your seat in the theatre. It starts with the feeling of anticipation as you walk through the lively streets of Soho. The best way to get into the theatrical spirit is with a leisurely pre-show ritual. Imagine a vibrant atmosphere, a drink in hand, and the promise of a delicious meal that sets the stage for the evening ahead.
For many, especially those going to a matinee show, a bottomless brunch is the perfect way to kick things off. Enjoy free-flowing drinks, from Prosecco to refreshing Spritz cocktails, alongside a feast of delicious food. It’s an ideal blend of celebration and relaxation that will make your afternoon outing feel special. Keep in mind that you do still have a full evening of festivities ahead of you, so try not to go over the top at brunch.
When selecting your spot for the pre-show brunch, you will want to consider a few things. First, find a place that is perfectly positioned in the heart of London’s West End, making it easy to get around and arrive on time for your show.
Secondly, check what they offer. Look for a menu of hearty dishes and a bar brimming with classic cocktails and delightful beers. These venues are perfect to unwind and indulge before the show begins. A good pre-theatre menu is designed to get you fed and watered with plenty of time to spare, so you can enjoy every bite without watching the clock.
The main event: The leading Soho theatres
Now that you are all fed and have had a few drinks to get into the spirit, it’s showtime. London’s Theatre District is quite vast, but much of its magic is concentrated around Shaftesbury Avenue, the beating heart of the West End.
This iconic street is lined with historic theatres, each with its legacy and story to tell. There is a lot of fascinating history behind these buildings, and they have all hosted some incredible shows over the years. Here is a closer look at a few of the legendary venues you might be visiting, and some of the shows that have happened within their walls.
The Palace Theatre
The Palace Theatre is one of London’s most famous, and being located on Shaftesbury Avenue means that it is only a 5-minute walk from Albert’s Schloss. Designed by Thomas Edward Collcutt, its grand red-brick walls and intricate architectural details are a sight to behold. Originally built as the Royal English Opera House in 1891, it was intended to be a home for grand English opera. The project failed, and it quickly became a music hall before cementing its reputation as a powerhouse for musicals.
- Notable shows: The Palace has hosted some of the most famous and longest-running musicals in West End history. In 1960, it became home to the musical “The Sound of Music”, which ran for over two thousand performances. The theatre is now famously home to the multi-award-winning play, “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”, drawing in crowds of all ages.
The Gielgud Theatre
The Gielgud Theatre, also located on Shaftesbury Avenue, is a short 2-minute stroll from Albert’s Schloss. Opened in 1906, it was initially named the Hicks Theatre. It was renamed in 1994 to honour the legendary actor Sir John Gielgud, one of the greatest actors of his generation. The theatre’s design, with its highly decorated plasterwork and golden detailing, offers a beautiful setting for a play or show.
Notable shows: The Gielgud has been the stage for many celebrated productions over the years. In recent times, it has hosted a legendary gender-swapped revival of Stephen Sondheim’s “Company” and the record-breaking, critically acclaimed production of “To Kill a Mockingbird”. The theatre is playing Lionel Bart’s “Oliver” at the moment, which is running until March 2026.
The Apollo Theatre
Opened in 1901, it was the first theatre to be completed in the Edwardian period. Its classic design, with a deep red and gold auditorium, gives it a traditional and comfortable feel. Despite its central location, it still has a cosy atmosphere, making it a favourite among actors and audiences. And you guessed it, this theatre is also located on Shaftesbury Avenue.
- Notable Shows: From the comedy classic “Boeing-Boeing”, which ran for over seven years, to the award-winning musical “Everybody’s Talking About Jamie”, the Apollo’s stage has seen a wide variety of critically acclaimed plays and musicals. The theatre is known for hosting popular and long-running shows that capture the public imagination.
The Sondheim Theatre
The Sondheim Theatre, originally named the Queen’s Theatre, was opened in 1907. It was designed by W.G.R. Sprague, who also designed the Gielgud Theatre. The theatre holds a significant place in West End history, having been the first to be put out of action by enemy bombing in 1940. It was eventually restored and reopened on Shaftesbury Avenue in 1959. In 2019, it was renamed in honour of the legendary American composer Stephen Sondheim.
- Notable Shows: The Queen’s Theatre was the long-time home of “Les Misérables”, hosting the show for an incredible 15 years. It has also seen performances from icons like Marlene Dietrich and a young Daniel Day-Lewis. Following its renaming, it now hosts an all-new, critically acclaimed production of “Les Misérables”.
The Lyric Theatre
The Lyric Theatre, opened in 1888, is the oldest surviving theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue. Designed by architect C. J. Phipps, it was originally built for operetta and has since hosted a wide range of dramas, comedies, and musicals. This one is also a short walk from Albert’s Schloss, only being 3 minutes away.
- Notable Shows: The Lyric has seen a steady stream of hit productions, including the long-running musical “Irma La Douce” and a successful run of “Blood Brothers”. More recently, it was home to the record-breaking “Thriller – Live” for over 11 years and the popular musical “Six”.
The Grand Finale: What to do after visiting the Soho theatres
The final curtain call doesn’t have to signal the end of your night. It’s the perfect opportunity to head back out and celebrate a fantastic performance. The streets of Soho, which were buzzing with pre-show excitement, now transform into the perfect place for a late-night out. Whether you’re looking for a quiet drink or a full-blown celebration, Soho has something for everyone after the shows have come to an end.
For those who want to carry the night’s energy, a post-theatre drink at one of Soho’s many cocktail bars is a great choice. The area is filled with speakeasy bars, lively pubs, and hidden gems where you can toast to an excellent performance.
If you’re feeling a bit hungry, many of the area’s restaurants stay open late, so you can enjoy a late-night meal without feeling rushed. For a different kind of entertainment, you could look for a live music venue, perhaps a world-famous jazz club like Ronnie Scott’s, or a late-night comedy show at Soho Theatre to keep the laughter going.
Albert’s Schloss is that perfect destination, where we offer a true final curtain call to your perfect night out. We have live music and performances that mean your night doesn’t end when the applause of the show fades. Whether you’re in the mood for a late-night feast, a celebratory drink from our extensive menu, or just want to soak in the atmosphere, we are your perfect curtain-closer. No ticket needed, everyone ist willkommen.
Know before you go: Perfecting your night out
A flawless theatre experience requires a little planning. To make sure that you don’t run into any issues on your fabulous theatre day or night out, take a moment to make sure that you have made all the necessary planning, such as booking early or making sure you are dressed correctly. Here are a few tips to ensure your pre- and post-show ritual is as perfect as the performance itself.
- Book your tickets early: West End shows, especially the big ones, can sell out quickly. Booking your tickets well in advance secures your seat and gives you something to look forward to.
- Dress code: There is no strict dress code for most London theatres. You will see everything from jeans and a t-shirt to formal wear. The most important thing is to be comfortable. In saying that, it is a good idea to always double-check before you head out.
- Timing is everything: Allow plenty of time for your meal or drinks before the show. It’s always best to arrive at the theatre with at least 15 minutes to spare before the curtain goes up. This gives you time to find your seat and get settled without feeling rushed.
- Plan your post-show: After the show, many people head straight for a drink or a meal. Planning where you’re going to go in advance, like reserving a table, means you won’t have to search for a spot in a busy Soho.
Ready for your Soho curtain call?
The combination of a world-class show and an unforgettable dining experience is the key to perfecting your night out in London’s theatre district. Albert’s Schloss is your ideal destination for the ultimate pre-show meal and post-show party.
Book a table with us today and make your next trip to the West End fantastic.
