Many people feel nervous about attending theatre solo. Will they feel awkward? Will others judge them? Will the interval be uncomfortable?

This guide celebrates solo theatregoing, recommends the best shows to see alone, and provides practical tips for making the most of your independent theatre experience.

If you love theatre, you don't need a plus-one to enjoy it.

Why Solo Theatre Is Brilliant

Complete Control

You choose the show. You choose the date. You choose the seat. No negotiation required.

Better Tickets

Single seats are easier to find than pairs, often in better locations. Theatres frequently release solo tickets for premium positions when pairs won't fit.

Deeper Immersion

Without the social pressure of a companion, you can fully surrender to the story. Laugh louder, cry freely, experience everything more intensely.

Your Pace

Arrive when you want. Leave when you want. Get a drink at the interval or sit quietly. The evening is entirely yours.

Treat Yourself

You deserve beautiful experiences without waiting for someone else's calendar to align.

Best Shows for Solo Theatregoers

For Pure Escapism

Wicked - Apollo Victoria Theatre Spectacular, emotional, immersive. The story of friendship and identity rewards close attention. The staging is so visually rich that you'll want to notice every detail.

The Lion King - Lyceum Theatre The opening Circle of Life is overwhelming in the best way. Perfect for losing yourself completely in visual wonder.

For Intellectual Engagement

Hamilton - Victoria Palace Theatre The dense lyrics and complex staging benefit from undivided attention. You'll catch details you'd miss while checking if your friend is enjoying it.

Les Misérables - Sondheim Theatre Emotionally devastating in the best way. Crying alone at "Bring Him Home" is a cathartic experience.

For Short & Sharp

SIX - Vaudeville Theatre Just 75 minutes, no interval. Concert energy. Pop into the theatre, have an incredible time, back out into the evening.

ABBA Voyage - ABBA Arena 90 minutes, standing optional, dancing encouraged. Solo concert-goers are completely normal.

For Something Different

Stranger Things: The First Shadow - Phoenix Theatre Three hours of mind-bending effects. The immersive elements reward being fully present.

For Intimate Drama

The Mousetrap - St Martin's Theatre The classic murder mystery works perfectly for solo viewing. You can concentrate on the clues without whispered speculation.

Practical Tips for Solo Theatre

Choosing Your Seat

Single tickets often get the best last-minute availability. Box offices release odd seats that can't be sold as pairs, sometimes in premium locations.

Best positions for solos:

• End of row (easy bathroom access, no climbing over people)

• Single seats in otherwise sold-out sections

• Front row of dress circle (often excellent single availability)

The Interval

Many people worry about looking "alone" during the interval. Solutions:

Stay in your seat - Read your programme. People-watch. Check your phone. Nobody's judging.

Get a drink - Theatre bars serve plenty of solo theatregoers. Order confidently.

Step outside - Fresh air and a wander is perfectly acceptable.

Skip it - Shows under 90 minutes (SIX, ABBA Voyage) have no interval.

Eating Solo

Pre-theatre dining alone is increasingly common. Many restaurants have bar seating designed for solo diners. Alternatively, grab something quick and enjoy the show.

Getting There and Back

Without coordinating with others, you're free to:

• Arrive exactly when suits you

• Leave immediately if you need to

• Take whatever transport works best

• Not wait for anyone at the stage door

Solo Theatre Etiquette

Being alone doesn't change the basic rules:

• Phone off

• No talking (obviously, but some people do mutter to themselves)

• Stay seated during performance

• Applaud freely

Solo theatregoers are often the most respectful audience members because there's no one to chat with.

Best Times to Go Solo

Weekday evenings - Quieter, more serious theatre crowds. Less chance of feeling conspicuous.

Matinees - Often a higher proportion of solo theatregoers. Common for people treating themselves.

Preview performances - Early in a run, audiences are smaller and more focused.

What About Stage Door?

Going to stage door alone is fine. You might even have better conversations with performers without the social dynamic of a group.

Book Your Solo Theatre Date

Ready to treat yourself? Book London theatre direct through tickadoo:

• Les Misérables

• The Lion King

• Wicked

• Hamilton

• SIX (75 minutes, no interval)

• ABBA Voyage (90 minutes, concert vibe)

• Stranger Things

You don't need anyone else to enjoy world-class theatre. Just yourself, a ticket, and an open heart.

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