The Old Vic is as vital today as it was in 1818 when it first opened its doors and has been creating world-class entertainment in SE1 for 200 years. We are extremely proud of our work with the Lambeth community which includes free workshops, a community company, schemes for local schools and an almost 24 hour operation providing somewhere for the local community to come for a coffee, hang out, have lunch and see a show.For our 200th birthday we will be celebrating what has been but, more importantly, looking forward to what is still to come.
Join our celebration on Saturday 12 May
An entirely free afternoon of fun for the whole family.
Procession
Meet at 12 noon outside the National Theatre on South Bank for a procession to The Old Vic, led by a 10-piece marching band from Kansas Smitty’s and with surprise performances along the way.
Street Party
Back at The Old Vic, Webber Street will be brought to life from 1.30pm with street performers, craft activities, food stalls and an interactive pedal-powered sound system.
Open House from 2pm
Come inside The Old Vic for Open House events for ages 3+. These are almost all sold out, but there will be a limited amount available for walk-ups on the day. The events include Comedy Club 4 Kids, The Children’s Bookshow, Puppet making workshops and Penny lectures.
Bicentenary Variety Night
The party continues in the evening as the auditorium is transformed into a cabaret space for one night only. The line-up includes musical performances from 2018 Olivier Award winner Sheila Atim (Girl from the North Country) and actor and musician Arthur Darvill (Doctor Who, Broadchurch); writer, comedian and actor Tim Key (‘Art’); a musical performance from the upcoming hip-hop musical Sylvia, and much, much more.
For more information
- For more information on the daytime events see the Old Vic’s ‘Open House’ page or call the Box Office 0844 871 7628*
- For a full line-up of the evening show and to book tickets (from £15) see the Old Vic’s Variety Night page or call the Box Office 0844 871 7628*(
(*0844 numbers are charged at 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge)
