About us

The Bloomsbury Theatre is where ideas spark and creativity comes to life. Originally opened in 1968, today it showcases the best of theatre, music, dance, comedy and everything in-between. 

We seek out new work by some of the UK’s most imaginative performers and cultural organisations, as well as welcoming high-profile and household names throughout the year.

The theatre is proud to be part of UCL, one of the world’s leading universities. We work together with students and researchers to bring ground-breaking discoveries to the stage, from art and design, science, technology and beyond. 

History of the theatre
First opened in 1968 as the Central Collegiate Building Auditorium (later the Collegiate Theatre), the building was renamed in 1982 as The Bloomsbury Theatre to reflect its geographical location, as well as the artistic associations of the name. The Bloomsbury Theatre seats up to 541 people and the Bloomsbury Studio (seating up to 70 people) was added in 2015 providing a more flexible space for performances.   

Over the years huge artists including UCL alumnus Ricky Gervais, singer Adele, American Jazz artist Gregory Porter, comedian Jo Brand and the world-famous Stomp percussion group have entertained audiences at the Bloomsbury. 

In 2019, fifty years after its very first performance, the landmark Brutalist building reopened its doors following a major renovation project to create a spectacular main auditorium with more than 500 luxurious seats, as well as the smaller, more intimate Bloomsbury Studio. Over three years, the theatre's original concrete walls and brick foyers were refurbished and every bit of the building was upgraded - from the carpets to the roof, the stage to the dressing rooms - to create a cutting-edge performance space in the heart of London. 

How to find us
Please click here to plan your visit.