A visit to an iconic West End theatre will add a touch of drama to any trip. With a plethora of shows to choose from, one standout performance is the gloriously chaotic The Comedy About Spies which, when complemented with a gourmet dinner and luxurious hotel stay, will create an unforgettable experience.
LONDON IN THE LIMELIGHT
London, a vibrant capital city with a long and storied past, boasts famed, historic venues that combine with captivating stage shows in theatreland.
Drawing visitors into a world where tradition meets innovation, illuminating the stage with the brilliance of both classic and contemporary artistry, a night out in the West End promises an adventure brimming with excitement, laughter, and a hint of glamour.
Grand theatres adorned with intricate designs and plush seating showcase an eclectic range of performances that cater to every taste, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. Walking through the city’s lively, post-theatre streets also allows visitors to experience the dynamic sights and sounds of London nightlife.
As the air is infused with the buzz of anticipation, the rich aromas of fine dining waft from nearby restaurants, tempting your palate before returning to the stylish and elegant embrace of a first-class London hotel.
A night out in theatreland promises not just entertainment but a journey filled with cherished memories that will linger long after the curtain falls.
AN EVENING OF INTRIGUE AND ESPIONAGE
Begin your evening by immersing yourself in the energetic atmosphere of the theatre with the standout show, The Comedy About Spies, currently running at the Noël Coward Theatre.
Formerly known as the Albery Theatre, the venue is a gem nestled in St Martins Lane, a bustling street in the heart of London’s West End in Covent Garden. Built in 1899, the classical Grade II-listed building boasts 872 seats spread over four levels, including private boxes, offering an authentic theatrical experience.
Its interior is decked out in charming Rococo style that originated in Paris in the 18th century, identified by scrolling curves, elegant gilding, white and pastel colours, sculpted moulding, and trompe-l’œil frescoes to create the illusion of motion and drama.
For the best cultural experience, a live performance is hard to beat, particularly a side-splitting spy spoof such as The Comedy About Spies, where hilarious onstage antics create an absurd and delightful escape in this clever parody.
Mayhem and mischief ensue when a not-so-secret mission goes awry in this uproarious 1960s escapade, brought to life by the creative team behind The Play That Goes Wrong.
A combination of clever writing and physical comedy creates an engaging and entertaining evening that truly captures the essence of live theatre.
The plot features competing spies from the CIA and KGB as they attempt to recover the plans for a top-secret British weapon from a rogue agent in London’s Piccadilly Hotel.
Armed with slapstick comedy, secret agents, and silly plot twists, the fast-paced farce takes aim at espionage clichés with rapid-fire gags delivered by a clueless couple, a hopeless actor dreaming of James Bond stardom, and enough mistaken identities to blow the whole operation.
To enhance the performance experience, champagne and VIP packages are available. These include premium seating, drinks, and a souvenir brochure. The VIP package features a designated hospitality area, savoury canapés, and a theatre host.
AN EXTRAVAGANT ENCORE
After the curtain falls, continue your night with an exquisite meal at the legendary J Sheekey. This restaurant, known for its seafood-centric menu, exudes a timeless elegance, making it a favourite amongst theatregoers for over a century.
Since Victorian times, J Sheekey has been a beacon of culinary excellence in the heart of Covent Garden, attracting actors and audience members alike. Its rich history includes the special permission it received in 1896 from the then Prime Minister, Lord Salisbury, to serve seafood in St. Martin’s Court, which adds a unique charm to its gastronomic delights.
Often described as a ‘Grand Dame of the West End’, many famous faces have gone through J Sheekey’s renowned ruby red door over the years.
It is festooned with black and white photographs of celebrities who have dined at the establishment, which hang on wood-panelled walls and provide a glimpse into the glamorous world of London’s arts scene.
The intimate setting is perfect for discussing the show and sharing your favourite moments.
Offering an extensive wine and cocktail list, J Sheekey is distinguished for its oysters, caviar, and lobsters. It also serves seafood platters and other main courses, including its signature fish pie, alongside a strong variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
During the warmer weather, J Sheekey offers a summer terrace in collaboration with Nyetimber, a world-renowned sparkling wine producer based in southern England. This partnership is inspired by the classic appeal of British picnics and the tranquil beauty of English vineyards.
The seafood icon also has live jazz music every Sunday, in addition to hosting Sheekey Secrets which lifts the curtain on the enchanting world of theatre and film. The series invites stars of the stage and screen for an intimate evening of conversation, with previous exclusive events having featured the likes of Dame Judi Dench and Sir Derek Jacobi.
WHEN THE CURTAIN COMES DOWN
After a satisfying seafood meal, a sumptuous stay in a soft, luxurious bed is needed, and St Martins Lane is an ideal one-of-a-kind hotel.
Designed by French industrial architect Philippe Starck, this contemporary space features a striking aesthetic characterised by decorative elements and furniture. Amongst its standout features are 18th-century Venetian mirrors suspended from the ceiling, which dramatically reflect the light streaming through the glass frontage. These elements combine to make it one of London’s most Instagrammable hotels.
Stylishly decorated and located in the vibrant theatre district, the hotel has many rooms and suites, including a Deluxe Garden Suite – an oasis of calm in the hustle and bustle of the city. The stone-walled patio with oversized botanicals enhances the experience of staying at this 5-star haven even further.
Typically, the suites are open-plan and feature a rainfall shower and king-size bed. The hotel’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking views of London’s cityscape, with the twinkling West End lights taking centre stage. This scenic view will leave you feeling awe-inspired and deeply connected to the capital.
With all the amenities guests expect from a high-class hotel, it also features Blind Spot – a hidden bar behind a secret lobby door that offers the finest cocktails, all inspired by global destinations, along with bar bites, live music, and DJs.
A culinary highlight is The Restaurant, which has seasonal menus that will transport guests to France this summer, with a bottomless brunch also available.
The Den, meanwhile, is a relaxing decompression zone of light nibbles and larger plates. Afternoon tea is also on the menu, with Tea & Tales promising a unique story with every bite.
To finish, as the sun sets over the London horizon, the vibrant coffee shop EllaMia transforms into an after-dark affair complete with curtains, candlelight, and a specially curated playlist. Cakes become canapés, and sparkling water is replaced with sparkling wine.
