Cameron Mackintosh announces major renovations to five West End theatres
Delfont Mackintosh Theatres has announced that it is to continue restoration works to all but two of its West End theatres in the coming years.
The work will see playhouses owned by the company - Novello, Queen's, Gielgud, Noel Coward and Wyndham's - will close for a period of between two to four months over the course of the next three years.
The Prince of Wales and Prince Edward have had major works undertaken in the last 15 years, and the Victoria Palace was renovated prior to last year's opening of Hamilton, and so they won't require closure.
This will mean that the West End production of Les Miserables, which is currently in its 33rd year in the London, will require arrangements to continue running with minimal disruption to the production. Plans are set to be announced in the autumn.
Work will begin next month on the Wyndham's, following the closure of Red and opening of The Height of the Storm, followed by work on the Noel Coward and Gielgud in 2019 and the Queen's Theatre over 2019/20.
Work to the Novello can be completed without any disruption to performances, as 50% of the work has already been completed.
On the works, Cameron Mackintosh said: "Having just completed the hugely rewarding but very expensive restoration of the Victoria Palace, news of the timing of these works which are necessary to ensure that my other theatres will be in tip top condition for actors, producers and audiences, long after the final curtain has dropped on me, was not the most welcome.
"There are major financial consequences, not just the considerable cost of the capital works, but the knock on costs of closing these theatres for several months will run into many millions of pounds.
"However, I love these buildings and luckily my success as a Producer has given me the resources to preserve their life for another 100 years - so that the show can go on and on and on."
Frequently asked questions
What is Les Misérables about?
Do you hear the people sing? The iconic West End classic returns with a fresh staging and design. Even if you’ve seen Les Mis before, you haven’t seen it like this. This global hit tells a timeless story of redemption and revolution, complete with famous songs like “I Dreamed A Dream.” Get your tickets to Les Miserables at the Sondheim Theatre today.
How long is Les Misérables?
The running time of Les Misérables is 2hr 50min. Incl. 15min interval.
Where is Les Misérables playing?
Les Misérables is playing at Sondheim Theatre. The theatre is located at 51 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 6BA.
What's the age requirement for Les Misérables?
The recommended age for Les Misérables is Ages 7+. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by and sat next to an adult ticketholder (18+). Children under the age of 3 will not be admitted..
How do you book tickets for Les Misérables?
Book tickets for Les Misérables on London Theatre.
What are the songs in 'Les Misérables'?
Les Misérables is a sung-through musical featuring many classic songs like “Bring Him Home,” “Stars,” and “I Dreamed a Dream.” Read our complete guide to the songs in Les Misérables.
Who wrote 'Les Misérables'?
Les Misérables is an adaptation of Victor Hugo’s novel. The musical was written by Claude-Michel Schönberg (music) and Alain Boublil (French lyrics), with Herbert Kretzmer providing the English-language libretto.
Who directed 'Les Misérables'?
Trevor Nunn and John Caird directed Les Misérables on stage, and the duo won a Tony Award for their work on the show in 1987.
When did 'Les Misérables' open in the West End?
Les Misérables opened at the Barbican Centre on 8 October 1985, then transferred to the Palace Theatre on 4 December 1985. It later moved again to its current home at the Sondheim Theatre on 3 April 2004.
Is 'Les Misérables' appropriate for kids?
This production is suitable for children over the age of 7. An adult must accompany any children under 16, and children under 3 will not be admitted into the auditorium.
Is 'Les Misérables' good?
An epic spectacle, Les Misérables continues to leave audiences breathless after over thirty years with its beautiful score and captivating story. Read our five-star review of Les Misérables.
Is 'Les Misérables' a true story?
Whilst Les Misérables is an adaptation of Victor Hugo’s novel of the same name, this fictional work dives into the inequalities of 19th-century France, including the June Rebellion of 1832.
Is 'Les Misérables' an opera?
No, Les Misérables is not opera but is categorised as a sung-through musical. The show seamlessly weaves spoken dialogue with various musical styles to tell the story. Find out more about the songs in Les Misérables with our song guide here.
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