Sadler's Wells Theatre

About

Sadler's Wells Theatre is a renowned performing arts venue located in Rosebery Avenue, Islington, London. Its origins date back to the late 17th century as a pleasure garden and "musick house," established by Richard or Thomas Sadler. The theatre evolved over time, becoming known for its spectacular entertainments, including pantomimes and naval melodramas. In the mid-19th century, it gained prominence under Samuel Phelps for staging Shakespearean plays. Today, Sadler's Wells is celebrated as a leading dance venue, hosting a wide range of performances from contemporary to traditional ballet. The current theatre, opened in 1998, features a 1,500-seat main auditorium and the Lilian Baylis Studio. It continues to evolve, with a new theatre opening in Stratford in 2025. Sadler's Wells is a producing house, supporting original works and associated artists, while also hosting visiting companies from around the world.