Leeds Playhouse
A dynamic theatre producing new works and established favourites, deeply connected to the Leeds community.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Most shows run in the evening
Leeds Playhouse
Best Time
Most shows run in the evening
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dynamic theatre producing new works and established favourites, deeply connected to the Leeds community.
"A beautiful theatre with outstanding staff, offering a welcoming atmosphere and diverse productions."
🚗 Parking Perks
Cheap parking after 5 PM at John Lewis/Victoria Gate car park across the road. :parking:
💧 Free Interval Water
A nice touch: free water is available during the interval. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
A Thousand Splendid Suns
Quarry Theatre
An incredibly moving adaptation of Khaled Hosseini's novel, praised for brilliant acting and emotional depth.
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Courtyard Theatre
A magical Christmas production bringing C.S. Lewis's classic to life with magnificent costumes and puppets.
Paranormal Activity LIVE
Quarry Theatre
A thrilling and terrifying horror stage show inspired by the film series, promising jump scares and suspense.
Ribbons Sculpture
Exterior
An impressive sculpture featuring the names of 383 inspiring Leeds women, a powerful tribute to local history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Consider Accessibility Needs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Perks
Cheap parking after 5 PM at John Lewis/Victoria Gate car park across the road. :parking:
💧 Free Interval Water
A nice touch: free water is available during the interval. :droplet:
🎭 Book BSL Interpreted Shows
Appreciate the effort for deaf-aware staff and BSL interpreted performances. :performing_arts:
🧊 Venue Temperature
Can get warm inside, especially on hot days. Consider lighter clothing. :thermometer:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Perks
Cheap parking after 5 PM at John Lewis/Victoria Gate car park across the road. :parking:
💧 Free Interval Water
A nice touch: free water is available during the interval. :droplet:
🎭 Book BSL Interpreted Shows
Appreciate the effort for deaf-aware staff and BSL interpreted performances. :performing_arts:
🧊 Venue Temperature
Can get warm inside, especially on hot days. Consider lighter clothing. :thermometer:
🎬 Youth Theatre Fun
Weekly drama sessions for ages 5-21 led by professional artists. :child:
🤫 Keep Show Secrets
For 'Paranormal Activity LIVE', don't tell anyone what happens! :shushing_face:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Leeds Playhouse is praised for its diverse programming, comfortable seating, and attentive staff, creating a welcoming atmosphere. While the venue offers excellent productions and accessibility features, some audience members have noted issues with internal temperature control and the placement of BSL interpreters/subtitles.
"Came to see the adaption of Khaled Hosseini’s A Thousand Splendid Suns. Incredibly moving performance. We were in the Quarry Theatre, specifically seats M31 and M32 - unobstructed view of the whole show, albeit a little high up.
Playhouse itself is spacious with signs and staff present to help you get around. We were able to get snacks from the canteen during the break and the ice cream carts were a bonus.
Looking forward to seeing more shows here."
Amani Abid
"A great modern theatre building, seating is comfortable and the stage is easily visible from all the seats. Cheap parking available after 5 PM at the John Lewis/Victoria Gate multistorey car park across the road."
H Muneer
"Leeds Playhouse is a beautiful theatre with outstanding staff. I was genuinely impressed by how attentive and deaf-aware the team was - it’s clear they’ve had training and care deeply about inclusion.
The stage design was stunning and the venue itself had a welcoming atmosphere. I attended a BSL interpreted performance and while I appreciate the effort, there are a few things that could be improved:
-The BSL interpreter was too far from the main performance, which made it challenging to focus on both.
-There was no introduction by the interpreter, so it took a moment to realise who they were.
-The viewing angle made the experience more tiring than enjoyable.
With a few thoughtful changes - especially involving the deaf community in planning - the Playhouse could lead the way in theatre accessibility. Wonderful staff and space - now just a few steps away from being fully inclusive"
R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Leeds Playhouse is centrally located. You can reach it by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. For those driving, the John Lewis/Victoria Gate multistorey car park offers affordable parking after 5 PM.
Yes, the John Lewis/Victoria Gate multistorey car park is conveniently located across the road and offers cheaper rates after 5 PM.
Leeds Playhouse is well-served by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop in the city centre, making it easily accessible by bus.
Leeds Train Station is a short walk from Leeds Playhouse, making it a convenient option for visitors arriving by train.
The nearest transport links include numerous bus stops in the city centre and Leeds Train Station, both within walking distance of the Playhouse.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Leeds Playhouse website, by phone, or in person at the box office. Booking in advance is recommended for popular shows.
Concessionary rates are typically available for students, seniors, and those with disabilities. Check the specific show's page on the website for details.
While tickets may be available on the door for some performances, it's advisable to book in advance, especially for sold-out shows, to avoid disappointment.
Yes, Leeds Playhouse offers BSL interpreted performances. While staff are attentive, some audience members suggest improvements to interpreter placement and subtitle board visibility.
Refund and exchange policies can vary per performance. It's best to check the specific terms and conditions on the Leeds Playhouse website or contact the box office directly.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
Seating is generally comfortable with good legroom and clear views of the stage from most seats, including the Quarry Theatre.
Some audience members have reported that the venue can get very warm, especially on hot days, and suggested better ventilation or cooling systems are needed.
One reviewer mentioned that more toilets might be needed, particularly during busy periods.
Leeds Playhouse has multiple spaces, including the Quarry Theatre and the Courtyard Theatre, each hosting different productions.
Yes, Leeds Playhouse runs a Youth Theatre with weekly drama sessions for ages 5-21, led by professional artists.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a canteen where you can get snacks, and ice cream carts are available during breaks. Free water is also provided during intervals.
Snacks are available from the canteen during breaks, though specific offerings can vary.
While the Playhouse has a canteen for snacks, for full meals, you might consider dining at one of the many restaurants in the nearby Victoria Gate or city centre before your performance.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the theatre auditoriums. It's best to consume these in the public areas or before entering the performance space.
Yes, there are usually bar facilities available at Leeds Playhouse where you can purchase drinks before the show and during the interval.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography and videography are generally not allowed inside the auditoriums during performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. Check venue guidelines for public areas.
The 'Ribbons' sculpture outside the Playhouse offers a unique and inspiring photo opportunity.
No, filming during performances is strictly prohibited. For 'Paranormal Activity LIVE', filming was banned even after the show started.
You can take photos in the public areas of the Playhouse, such as the foyer and outside the building, before the performance begins.
Some shows, like 'Paranormal Activity LIVE', have strict rules about not revealing plot details, which extends to photography and sharing information.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, consider the venue's temperature, as it can get warm. While there are snack options available, bringing your own water might be a good idea. The comfortable seating and clear stage views ensure a pleasant experience for the whole family.
🎭 Theatre Enthusiasts
Keep an eye on their schedule for new plays and adaptations. The comfortable seating and good stage visibility across their theatres, like the Quarry Theatre, enhance the viewing experience. Don't miss out on their commitment to new writing and innovative productions that push theatrical boundaries.
👂 Deaf and Hard of Hearing Visitors
It's recommended to book seats that offer a good vantage point for both the performance and the interpreter. Engaging with the venue's accessibility team or checking specific performance notes can help in choosing the best seats. The Playhouse's commitment to inclusivity is commendable, and they are actively working towards enhancing the experience for all patrons.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Playhouse's Diverse Programming
The Playhouse also champions new writing and touring productions, bringing both established favourites and cutting-edge theatre to Leeds audiences. This commitment to variety means that checking their schedule regularly is key to discovering their latest offerings. Whether you're interested in drama, musicals, comedy, or experimental theatre, Leeds Playhouse aims to provide a rich and varied theatrical calendar.
Beyond the main stage productions, the Playhouse actively engages with the community through its Youth Theatre and various events, further solidifying its role as a cultural hub in Leeds. This dedication to diverse storytelling and community involvement makes Leeds Playhouse a vibrant and essential destination for theatre lovers.
Accessibility and Inclusivity at Leeds Playhouse
However, feedback from audience members suggests areas for enhancement. Specifically, the placement of BSL interpreters and subtitle boards has been noted as challenging for some, requiring a difficult choice between watching the performance and reading the text. Additionally, the venue's temperature on warmer days has been a point of concern for some visitors, with suggestions for improved ventilation.
Despite these points, the overall sentiment is positive regarding the staff's dedication to inclusion. With further collaboration with the deaf community and attention to environmental controls, Leeds Playhouse has the potential to become a leading example of inclusive theatre practice.
Community and Local Connections
The Playhouse also collaborates with local artists and organizations, showcasing Leeds's talent. Events like 'Music House' bring together local artists under one roof to support a local charity, demonstrating the Playhouse's commitment to fostering the local arts scene. Furthermore, they engage with community groups, such as showcasing 'Sisters 360' with Getaway Girls, highlighting their role in supporting and platforming local initiatives.
This strong local connection extends to their Youth Theatre, which provides young people in Leeds with opportunities to develop their skills and engage with professional artists, nurturing the next generation of talent within the city.
Social
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