Edinburgh Playhouse – Shows & Tickets
Upcoming Shows & Events at Edinburgh Playhouse
About the Edinburgh Playhouse
Edinburgh Playhouse, one of the largest theatres in Scotland, opened in 1929 as a cinema and later transitioned to a live performance venue. Its grand auditorium and opulent design make it a landmark of Art Deco architecture in the city.
The theatre hosts a wide range of performances, including touring West End musicals, plays, concerts, comedy shows, and family events. Recent highlights include productions of The Phantom of the Opera, Hamilton, and stand-up performances from leading comedians.
Edinburgh Playhouse Timeline
- 1929 – Theatre opens as a cinema
- 1978 – Converted into a live performance venue
- 1990s – Major restoration preserves the historic interior
- 2000s–Present – Becomes a top destination for touring West End productions
5 Things You Didn’t Know About Edinburgh Playhouse
- The original cinema organ is still occasionally used for performances
- The theatre has a capacity of over 3,000, making it Scotland’s largest theatre
- It is a Category A listed building for its architectural and historic significance
- The stage is large enough to accommodate full-scale West End productions
- Many famous actors, including Judi Dench and Ian McKellen, have performed here
The History of Edinburgh Playhouse
Originally built as a cinema, Edinburgh Playhouse has evolved into one of Scotland’s premier live performance venues. The theatre combines historical architecture with modern facilities, making it suitable for large-scale musicals, concerts, comedy shows, and smaller productions. Its central location in Edinburgh makes it a cultural hub and a key stop on national touring routes.
How to Get to Edinburgh Playhouse
- Train: Waverley Station is a 10-minute walk, connecting Edinburgh with the national rail network
- Bus: Multiple Lothian and city bus routes stop nearby
- Car: Pay-and-display parking available in surrounding streets; Blue Badge parking close to the theatre
- Rideshare: Uber, Bolt, and local taxis provide convenient drop-off at the theatre entrance
- Cycle: Bicycle racks are located nearby
Local Guide
- Princes Street Gardens – Perfect for pre-show walks
- Royal Mile – Explore Edinburgh’s historic centre before or after a performance
- Scottish National Gallery – Cultural attraction within walking distance
- Local dining – Cafés, pubs, and restaurants are just minutes from the theatre
Venue Amenities
- Bars: Fully licensed bars serve drinks and light snacks before and during performances
- Toilets: Accessible and standard toilets available on all levels
- Cloakroom: Secure storage for coats and small bags; large luggage not permitted
Edinburgh Playhouse Seating Plan
The theatre has a capacity of over 3,000 seats, divided into Stalls, Circle, and Balcony levels. Central Stalls provide the best views and sound quality. View the seating plan here
Accessibility
Step-free access is available to key areas, with wheelchair spaces and hearing enhancement systems on request. Relaxed, captioned, and BSL-interpreted performances are offered throughout the year.
Safety Policy
Bag checks are in place at the entrance. Items such as alcohol, sharp objects, glass bottles, and oversized bags are not permitted.
Dress Code
There is no formal dress code. Smart casual is common, though guests may dress up for special occasions.
Insider Tips
- Arrive early: Allows time to admire the theatre’s Art Deco design
- Photography: Permitted before and after the show; not during performances
- Stage door: Performers, at their discretion, may meet briefly with theatregoers after a show. Theatregoers should always be respectful and understand that the performers have just completed a show and will most likely want to get home
- Check the programme: A wide range of musicals, plays, concerts, and comedy acts
Quick Facts
- Location: 18-22 Greenside Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3AA
- Seating Capacity: 3,059
- Opened: 1929
- Original Purpose: Cinema Palace
- Current Status: Premier touring venue for musicals, concerts, and comedy
What’s On at the Edinburgh Playhouse
The Edinburgh Playhouse hosts an impressive array of entertainment throughout the year, including:
- West End musicals
- International ballet performances
- Stand-up comedy shows
- Contemporary and classical concerts
- Opera productions
- Children’s shows
Popular Productions
Recent successful shows have included “The Lion King,” “Les Misérables,” “Wicked,” and performances by the Scottish Ballet. The venue’s exceptional acoustics and grand atmosphere make it perfect for both intimate performances and spectacular productions.
History and Architecture
Originally designed as a super-cinema by John Fairweather, the Edinburgh Playhouse was modelled after New York’s Roxy Theatre. Its stunning Art Deco architecture features:
- A magnificent curved facade
- Original period features throughout
- Ornate ceiling details
- Classic 1920s theatre design elements
The building narrowly escaped demolition in the 1970s thanks to a passionate local campaign, leading to its current status as a protected historic building.
Visitor Information
Getting There
- By Bus: Multiple local services stop nearby
- By Tram: Nearest stop is York Place
- By Train: 10-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley Station
- By Car: Limited parking available at Q-Park Omni Centre
Facilities
- Accessible seating and facilities
- Multiple bars and refreshment areas
- Cloakroom services
- VIP experiences available
- Multiple viewing levels, including Stalls, Circle, and Balcony
Planning Your Visit
Box Office Information
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 12:00-6:00 pm (later on show nights)
- Online Booking: Book tickets using links to box office
Pre-Theatre Dining
The surrounding area offers numerous dining options, including:
- The Playhouse Bar & Restaurant
- Omni Centre restaurants
- Various nearby bistros and cafes
Local Attractions
Make the most of your visit by exploring nearby attractions:
- Calton Hill (5-minute walk)
- Edinburgh New Town (surrounding area)
- Omni Centre (adjacent)
- St James Quarter (2-minute walk)
Ghost Stories and Theatre Lore
Like many historic theatres, the Edinburgh Playhouse has its share of supernatural tales. Albert, the theatre’s famous ghost, is said to be a former stagehand who still watches over performances from his favourite spot in the Flutter Room.
Community Impact
The Edinburgh Playhouse plays a vital role in Scotland’s cultural landscape by:
- Supporting local arts initiatives
- Providing educational programmes
- Hosting community events
- Contributing to Edinburgh’s festival season
Technical Specifications
For theatre enthusiasts and industry professionals:
- Stage width: 14.63m
- Proscenium height: 8.84m
- Orchestra pit capacity: Up to 60 musicians
- Modern lighting and sound systems
Sustainability Initiatives
The venue is committed to reducing its environmental impact through:
- Energy-efficient lighting
- Waste reduction programmes
- Digital ticketing options
- Local supplier partnerships
Contact Information and Social Media
Stay connected with the Edinburgh Playhouse:
- Twitter: @edinplayhouse
- Facebook: /edinburghplayhouse
- Instagram: @edinplayhouse
This historic venue continues to be a cornerstone of Edinburgh’s cultural scene, bringing world-class entertainment to Scotland’s capital. Whether you’re a local theatre enthusiast or a visitor to the city, the Edinburgh Playhouse offers an unforgettable entertainment experience in one of Britain’s most remarkable theatrical settings.
Edinburgh Playhouse What’s On
Frequently Asked Questions about Edinburgh Playhouse
What’s on at Edinburgh Playhouse?
Edinburgh Playhouse hosts West End touring productions, major musicals, live music concerts, comedy shows, and is a key venue for the Edinburgh International Festival. As the UK’s largest all-seated theatre with 3,056 seats, it attracts some of the biggest names in entertainment. Current and upcoming shows are listed above with booking information.
Where is Edinburgh Playhouse located?
Edinburgh Playhouse is located at 18-22 Greenside Place, Edinburgh EH1 3AA, at the top of Leith Walk next to the Omni Centre. The theatre is a 10-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley Station and is served by multiple bus routes and the tram at Picardy Place.
Is there parking at Edinburgh Playhouse?
Q-Park at the OMNI Centre (Greenside Row) is approximately 2 minutes away and offers 15% off pre-booked parking for ATG customers. St James Quarter car park is also 2 minutes away with a £8 fixed rate. Both facilities have accessible parking spaces and lifts to street level.
How do I get to Edinburgh Playhouse?
Edinburgh Playhouse is a 10-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley Station. Buses 1, 4, 16, 19, 25, and 34 stop at Leith Street, while buses 10 and 11 stop at York Place. The nearest tram stop is Picardy Place. Taxis can drop off outside the Omni Centre on Greenside Row.
Is Edinburgh Playhouse wheelchair accessible?
Edinburgh Playhouse has 8 step-free wheelchair spaces located in the Circle level, which is accessed at street level through the Circle Bar. The venue does not have a lift. There is 1 accessible toilet on the Circle level, accessed via the Circle Bar. An Infrared hearing system is available, and delivered-to-seat service can be arranged upon arrival.
What is the seating capacity of Edinburgh Playhouse?
Edinburgh Playhouse has a seating capacity of 3,056, making it the UK’s largest all-seated theatre. Seating is divided across three levels: Stalls (approximately 1,500 seats), Circle (approximately 700 seats), and Balcony (approximately 838 seats).
What time does Edinburgh Playhouse box office open?
The box office opens 90 minutes before performances. See each show’s details for specific performance times. You can also book tickets online 24/7. Call 0333 009 5399 for ticket enquiries and assistance. Please arrive early as bag checks and security checks take place before entry.
Does Edinburgh Playhouse have a bar?
Edinburgh Playhouse has multiple bars including Albert’s Bar in the foyer, The Boards Bar on the balcony level, The Lounge with reserved table service, and several kiosks. Little Picardy café and Pizza al Teatro pizzeria offer pre-show dining. Delivered-to-seat ordering is available to skip interval queues. This is a licensed venue; outside alcohol is not permitted.
Can I exchange my Edinburgh Playhouse tickets?
Ticket exchange policies vary by show and booking agent. Generally, tickets may be exchanged for a different performance of the same show, subject to availability and an administration fee. Refunds are rarely available unless a performance is cancelled. Contact ATG on 0333 009 5399 for specific terms.
Are there age restrictions at Edinburgh Playhouse?
Age restrictions vary by production at Edinburgh Playhouse. Most family shows welcome all ages, while some concerts and comedy performances may have minimum age requirements. Check the individual show listing for specific age guidance. Under 16s typically require adult supervision. Call 0333 009 5399 for age-related queries about specific shows.
How long are shows at Edinburgh Playhouse?
Show running times vary at Edinburgh Playhouse. Most West End musicals run approximately 2 hours 30 minutes including an interval, while concerts and comedy shows typically last 1 to 2 hours. Specific running times are listed on each show’s booking page. Doors usually open 45 minutes before the performance starts.
Is there a dress code at Edinburgh Playhouse?
There is no formal dress code at Edinburgh Playhouse. Most guests dress smart-casual for evening performances, though you’re welcome to dress up for special occasions. Wear comfortable shoes as there are stairs throughout the venue. The theatre does not have a cloakroom, so avoid bringing large bags or suitcases.
