Royal Alexandra Theatre, Toronto - greyscale photo of building
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Royal Alexandra Theatre Toronto

4.7
·4k reviews·Toronto, Canada

Experience Toronto's opulent, century-old Royal Alexandra Theatre, the world's only remaining double-decker theatre, for unforgettable live performanc...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdMedium
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Royal Alexandra Theatre, Toronto - greyscale photo of building

Royal Alexandra Theatre Toronto

Best Time

Weekday Evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience Toronto's opulent, century-old Royal Alexandra Theatre, the world's only remaining double-decker theatre, for unforgettable live performances. TikTok+1

4.7
(4k reviews)

"This has to be the most dreamy theatre in Toronto! TikTok"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Mirvish Emails

Sign up for Mirvish email lists for potential deals on shows. :email:

⏰ Arrive 30-45 Mins Early

Give yourself plenty of time to get through lines and find your seats. :alarm_clock:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Opulent Beaux-Arts Architecture

Opulent Beaux-Arts Architecture

Entire Theatre

Step back in time in this dreamy, century-old theatre with stunning Beaux-Arts design.

TikTok
World's Only Double-Decker Theatre

World's Only Double-Decker Theatre

Main Auditorium

Experience the unique charm of a theatre with a rare double-decker seating arrangement.

TikTok
Premier Touring Musicals & Plays

Premier Touring Musicals & Plays

Main Stage

Catch acclaimed touring productions, from classic musicals to captivating plays.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

For popular shows at the Royal Alexandra Theatre Toronto, booking tickets well in advance is crucial. Many visitors recommend signing up for Mirvish email lists for potential deals, though they note productions are generally expensive. Reddit

Arrive Early for the Show

To avoid missing any of the performance and navigate potential crowds, it's advised to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before the show's start time. This allows ample time for ticket lines and finding your seats. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend Matinees
Why
Good for families, still busy
Crowd
High
When
Off-Peak Season
Why
Potentially better ticket prices
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

this has to be the most dreamy theatre in toronto ⏳🍂✨ #thingstodo #todotoronto #torontotheatre #torontospots #PlacesToVisit #torontolife #torontoactivities #hiddengems #datenightideas #touristattracti...
@torontotwinss_
96.3K likes • 1M views

🎯 Book Mirvish Emails

Sign up for Mirvish email lists for potential deals on shows. Reddit :email:

⏰ Arrive 30-45 Mins Early

Give yourself plenty of time to get through lines and find your seats. Reddit :alarm_clock:

✨the world’s ONLY double decker theatre is here in Toronto!✨ . Edit: Apparently the theatres are not participating this year. Save this for next year! . walk up 75 steps from the elgin to winter garde...
@tayy_lorde
39.3K likes • 456.7K views
reddit.com

the Royal Alexandra: a good place to take my girlfriend? best seats?

🪑 Best Seats: Mid-Orchestra/Balcony

Mid-orchestra or front balcony seats offer great sightlines. Reddit :seat:

🚶 Stage Door on Pearl St.

The stage door is located around the back on Pearl Street. Reddit :walking:

reddit.com

Stage Door for Royal Alex?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Mirvish Emails

Sign up for Mirvish email lists for potential deals on shows. Reddit :email:

⏰ Arrive 30-45 Mins Early

Give yourself plenty of time to get through lines and find your seats. Reddit :alarm_clock:

🪑 Best Seats: Mid-Orchestra/Balcony

Mid-orchestra or front balcony seats offer great sightlines. Reddit :seat:

🚶 Stage Door on Pearl St.

The stage door is located around the back on Pearl Street. Reddit :walking:

📏 Legroom Can Be Tight

As an older theatre, legroom might be limited; consider this for comfort. Reddit :straight_ruler:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Royal Alexandra Theatre's stunning, historic Beaux-Arts architecture and its unique double-decker design, calling it a 'dreamy' venue. The quality of touring productions is a major draw, offering world-class entertainment. However, some find the legroom to be limited, and ticket prices can be on the higher side.

"I love how quaint this theatre looks from the outside but it is such a lovely space on the inside and we had a great time there. Definitely at the same level as a Broadway theatre, coming from someone visiting from New York. Absolutely loved Natasha Pierre and the Great Comet here!"

Ethan

"This is a very nice midsize theater. It’s grand deer on the medium scale which is just a perfect. The photos were from Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet musical stage seating.

The acoustic was excellent and the whole atmosphere was cosy and grand at the same time. Location was easy to get to with plenty of parkades around to choose from.

The ushers were all very helpful and friendly. Lighting was excellent.. Really enjoyed this theater."

KH

"I recently saw Clue at the Royal Alexandra Theatre and had an absolutely killer time, though thankfully no one was actually murdered in the lounge. The production was laugh out loud funny, and every actor was spot on. The theatre itself has a timeless charm with a vintage feel, and it was the perfect setting for a show like Clue. We dressed up as Miss Scarlet and Mrs. White, which the staff got a real kick out of—such a fun touch to the experience. We were seated in the Dress Circle (second row), and as two people who are 5'1", the view of the stage was excellent. The space was clean, cozy, and full of character. A perfect afternoon at the theatre!"

Rhea Newman

What People Like

Stunning historic architecture
Unique double-decker design
High-quality touring shows

What People Dislike

Limited legroom
Expensive ticket prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Royal Alexandra Theatre is located at 195 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1J2. It's easily accessible by public transit, with streetcar stops nearby on King Street. Many visitors recommend using the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) to avoid parking hassles in the busy downtown core. TikTok

While there are parking garages in the vicinity, they can be expensive and fill up quickly, especially for popular shows. Many attendees suggest using public transportation or ride-sharing services to reach the theatre. Reddit

For a stress-free experience, taking the streetcar or subway to the King or St. Andrew stations is highly recommended. This avoids the challenges of downtown Toronto traffic and parking. Reddit

Yes, the Royal Alexandra Theatre is a walkable distance from Union Station, approximately a 15-20 minute walk west along King Street West. It's a pleasant stroll through the entertainment district. TikTok

It's wise to check the TTC schedule in advance, especially for late-night return trips after a performance. Allow extra travel time, as downtown Toronto can experience delays. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are primarily sold through Mirvish Productions, the theatre's operator. You can purchase them online via the Mirvish website, by phone, or at the Princess of Wales Theatre box office. Reddit

Showtimes vary depending on the production, but typically include evening performances on weekdays and weekends, as well as matinee performances on weekends and some weekdays. Always check the specific show's schedule. Reddit

It's strongly advised to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before the scheduled start time. This allows ample time for ticket lines, security checks, and finding your seats without rushing. Reddit

While Mirvish productions are generally expensive, signing up for their email list can sometimes yield special offers or promotions. Keep an eye out for these deals. Reddit

Latecomers are usually admitted during a suitable break in the performance to minimize disruption. However, it's best to be on time to avoid missing the beginning of the show. Reddit

🎫 🪑 Seating & Viewing

Many patrons recommend the middle of the main floor (orchestra) or the front/center of the lower balcony for excellent sightlines. These areas generally offer a clear view of the stage without significant obstruction. Reddit

The Royal Alexandra Theatre features a unique double-decker design. The seating chart shows the orchestra level, dress circle, and upper balcony. It's advisable to consult a detailed seating chart online before purchasing tickets. TikTok

For shorter individuals, orchestra seating can be a gamble. While seats are staggered and the theatre is raked, it's still possible to be behind a taller person. Using a 'view from my seat' website can help gauge the incline. Reddit

Balcony seats offer a different perspective, akin to watching a play from a distance. While you can see the entire stage, the detail might be less pronounced than from closer seats. Reddit

Box seats, such as those in the Dress Circle, can offer a more intimate experience but may have slightly obstructed views, especially if you are in the front row next to the box. Reddit

🎫 🎭 Onstage Experience

The Royal Alexandra Theatre primarily hosts touring Broadway productions, including major musicals and plays. It's known for bringing world-class entertainment to Toronto. TikTok

Show lengths vary by production, but most musicals and plays run for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, including one or two intermissions. Check the specific show's details for exact runtimes. Reddit

Yes, most performances at the Royal Alexandra Theatre include at least one intermission, allowing attendees to stretch their legs, visit the restrooms, or purchase refreshments. Reddit

The stage door, located on Pearl Street, is where you might be able to catch actors after the performance. It's a common practice for fans to wait there for autographs. Reddit

The theatre boasts an opulent and dreamy atmosphere, thanks to its century-old Beaux-Arts architecture. It provides a truly magical setting for live performances. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Royal Alexandra Theatre can be a magical experience for families, especially for older children who can appreciate the grandeur of the theatre and the spectacle of a live show. Choose shows that are age-appropriate; musicals often have broader appeal. TikTok Consider booking seats in the mid-orchestra or front balcony for the best views, ensuring younger children can see the stage clearly. Reddit Arriving early is also beneficial to avoid any pre-show rush and allow children to settle in comfortably. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While the Royal Alexandra Theatre hosts premium productions, budget-conscious travelers can still find ways to enjoy a show. Signing up for Mirvish Productions' email newsletters is the best bet for potential discounts or special offers. Reddit Attending weekday matinee performances might sometimes be slightly less expensive than weekend evening shows. Reddit Alternatively, consider seats in the upper balcony, which are typically more affordable, though they offer a more distant view. Reddit

💖 Couples & Date Nights

The Royal Alexandra Theatre is a fantastic choice for a romantic date night. Its opulent Beaux-Arts architecture and dreamy atmosphere create an unforgettable setting. TikTok For the best experience, splurge on mid-orchestra or front balcony seats for clear views of the performance. Reddit Consider booking a show that appeals to both your interests, and remember to arrive a bit early to enjoy a drink or simply admire the theatre's beauty together. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Royal Alexandra Theatre's Unique Architecture

The Royal Alexandra Theatre is a true architectural gem in Toronto, renowned for its Beaux-Arts style and its status as the world's only remaining double-decker theatre from its era. Opened in 1907, it has been meticulously preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into theatrical history. The opulent interiors, with their intricate detailing and grand design, create a truly magical ambiance that enhances the live performance experience. TikTok+1

This unique double-decker design means the theatre has two distinct seating levels, which contributes to its intimate feel despite its capacity. While this design is a historical marvel, it also means that legroom can be somewhat limited in certain sections, a common characteristic of older theatres. Reddit Visitors often remark on the sheer beauty and historical significance of the building, making a visit here as much about the venue as the performance itself. Exploring the theatre's ornate lobby and seating areas is an experience in itself. TikTok

Navigating Seating and Sightlines

Choosing the right seats at the Royal Alexandra Theatre is key to enjoying your show. While the theatre offers good sightlines throughout, mid-orchestra and front-balcony seats are frequently cited as the best for an unobstructed view. Reddit These positions allow you to take in the full stage production without feeling too distant or having your view compromised. Reddit

For those concerned about legroom or height, it's worth noting that older theatres like the Royal Alex can have tighter seating than modern venues. Reddit Websites like 'View from My Seat' can be invaluable resources for gauging the incline and potential obstructions from specific seats. Reddit Even in the balcony, the perspective can be quite good, offering a comprehensive view of the stage, though perhaps with less detail than closer seats. Reddit Box seats can provide a unique, more private experience, but it's wise to check their specific viewing angles as they might offer a slightly compromised perspective. Reddit

Experiencing a Show: Tips for First-Timers

For first-time attendees of the Royal Alexandra Theatre, arriving early is a golden rule. Aim to be at the theatre 30-45 minutes before the show starts to comfortably navigate ticket lines, security, and find your seats without feeling rushed. Reddit This also allows you to soak in the magnificent architecture before the performance begins. TikTok

When it comes to booking, signing up for Mirvish Productions' email list is a good strategy for potential discounts, though major productions are typically pricey. Reddit Remember that the stage door is located on Pearl Street if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the cast after the show. Reddit The overall atmosphere is described as dreamy and opulent, making it a memorable venue for any theatrical outing. TikTok

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