The Royal Opera House is the third theatre to stand on the site. Both of the previous ones were destroyed by fire, which was a serious hazard for theatres before the advent of electric lighting. Many works by Handel were first performed here and it was later the home of composer and conductor Michael Costa. The theatres have been host to drama, ballet, films, cabarets and lectures over the years as well as opera.
The building is air conditioned and has a number of bars and restaurants. The auditorium dates from 1858 and seats 2,268 people over 5 levels.
Disabled access to the building is via the entrances on Bow Street or the Piazza. There are lifts to all levels inside. Six wheelchairs can be accommodated at Stalls Circle level, 4 on the Grand Tier, 6 on the Balcony and 3 on the Upper Amphitheatre. There are adapted toilets by the lifts on all levels. The auditorium has an infra-red sound amplification system with 20 headsets. There are surtitles for all opera productions.
The nearest tube stations are Covent Garden (120m) and Leicester Square (500m). There are 4 blue badge parking spaces on Floral Street and 3 on Bow Street. Other drivers can try the NCP at Drury Lane and Sheldon Street.
In our travels around the web, we found these Royal Opera House web pages useful. Contact us at team@tubehotels.com to list your favourite Royal Opera House website here.