Southwark Playhouse
Guide dated 14/06/2025.
Southwark Playhouse is an independent theatre and charity in South London, established in 1993 beneath the arches of London Bridge Station. Its founding aim was to create accessible, community-focused theatre and a creative hub for emerging artists and local residents. It now operates two venues: Southwark Playhouse Borough and Southwark Playhouse Elephant.
The Playhouse presents intimate and immersive performances, champions new and emerging talent, and offers subsidised tickets, relaxed performances and educational programmes. Its programme spans contemporary drama, musical theatre, documentary and gig theatre, as well as adaptations and classic works. It is part of Southwark’s cultural landscape, alongside institutions including Shakespeare’s Globe, Tate Modern and the Imperial War Museum.
History
Southwark Playhouse opened in 1993 beneath London Bridge Station. From the outset, it operated as a charity, with community engagement and arts education central to its mission (Official Southwark Playhouse Website).
In 2006, redevelopment of London Bridge Station prompted a move to 77-85 Newington Causeway. A former warehouse was converted into Southwark Playhouse Borough, with increased audience capacity and flexible studio-style spaces.
In January 2023, the Playhouse opened its second venue, Southwark Playhouse Elephant, in the Elephant and Castle regeneration area. The purpose-built venue expanded its programming capacity and community engagement. The Borough and Elephant venues operate in tandem, presenting work from new writing to classic revivals.
The Playhouse has also hosted charity galas, landmark productions and campaigns for permanent venues. Its expansion and resilience have contributed to its continuing role in London’s cultural life.
What to see
Venues and spaces
Both venues are known for flexible, non-traditional layouts. Borough’s black box spaces can be configured for thrust, traverse or in-the-round staging. The Elephant venue combines modern facilities with an intimate theatre setting.
The Elephant venue seats up to 310 people and has modern backstage facilities (LondonWorld). A facilities overview gives approximate main-theatre capacities of 200 at Borough and 300 at Elephant; Borough also has a studio or “Little Theatre” with a capacity of about 100.
| Facility | Borough venue | Elephant venue |
|---|---|---|
| Main theatre capacity | ~200 | ~300 |
| Studio/Little Theatre | ~100 | — |
| Step-free access | Yes | Yes |
| Wheelchair spaces | 2 per auditorium | 2 per auditorium |
| Accessible toilets | Yes | Yes |
| Bar | Yes | Yes |
Both venues have hearing loops and are described as fully wheelchair accessible. Relaxed performances are offered for audiences who benefit from a less formal theatre environment.
Productions and artistic programme
The Playhouse presents world premieres, experimental works, new writing, innovative adaptations, contemporary drama, musical theatre, classic works and devised pieces. It has served as a starting point for artists who have gone on to national and international recognition, and provides a platform for work that might otherwise struggle to reach the West End (Thatsup).
Past and featured productions include collaborations with the acclaimed company Simple8 and the London premiere of Jonathan Maitland’s “Wilko: Love and Death and Rock and Roll.” “Scissorhandz,” an irreverent musical tribute, and “KENREX,” a true-crime documentary play, illustrate the range of its programme (WhatsOnStage, Attitude).
The Playhouse bridges fringe and mainstream theatre: some productions transfer to the West End or tour nationally. Its work complements Southwark institutions such as the Young Vic and Shakespeare’s Globe, helping establish the borough as an arts destination.
Community and education
Community engagement is central to the Playhouse’s work. Workshops, youth theatres, outreach projects and school and local-organisation partnerships aim to foster skills, confidence and a lasting interest in the arts.
Community companies including the Elders Company and the People’s Company create productions reflecting local stories and Southwark’s heritage (LondonWorld). Education and outreach projects address social themes and use creative expression to support wellbeing and social cohesion. Initiatives and partnerships also work to make theatre accessible to people from different backgrounds (Arts.ac.uk).
Practical visiting information
Addresses and transport
- Borough 77-85 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BD (Clarissa’s Corner)
- Elephant 1 Dante Place, London SE11 4RX (Euan’s Guide)
- Elephant address also given as Dante Place, London SE1 1FB.
Borough is accessible via London Bridge Station, served by the Northern and Jubilee lines and National Rail; Borough Station on the Northern line is also nearby. Elephant is near Elephant and Castle Station, served by the Bakerloo and Northern lines and National Rail. Multiple bus routes serve Newington Causeway and Elephant & Castle. The theatres are near major stations and surrounded by eateries, bars and hotels (QX Magazine). Public transport is recommended because parking is limited.
Visiting hours and performances
The venues typically operate Tuesday to Sunday, with performances starting between 7:30 pm and 8:00 pm. Theatres typically open one hour before performances.
Box office hours are given as usually 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm on performance days; another listing gives 10:00 am to 7:00 pm on performance days. Box office hours are also described as coinciding with showtimes. Check the official Southwark Playhouse website for current schedules and exact times.
Occasional guided tours and backstage events are offered. Special events include gala performances and Q&As; announcements and booking details are published on the Playhouse website.
Tickets and offers
Ticket prices vary by production. Standard tickets are listed at £12 to £28. Concessions are available for students, seniors and local residents, and discounts are also mentioned for students and groups. The Playhouse offers subsidised tickets and some “Pay What You Can” performances or nights.
Tickets can be bought online, by phone or at the box office. Online booking is available through the Southwark Playhouse website and other platforms, including West End Theatre. Special events, last-minute ticket deals and exclusive offers are announced on the website and social media; signing up for the newsletter gives access to the latest news and offers.
Accessibility
Both venues offer step-free access, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets and hearing loops. Relaxed performances are scheduled, assistance dogs are welcome, and staff are trained to help visitors with additional needs. Visitors who need assistance or accessible seating can contact the box office in advance.
Tips
- Arriving early allows time to collect tickets and use the bar or café.
- Programming changes frequently; check the official website for current listings.
- The surrounding area has dining and entertainment options (Dream Big Travel Far Blog).
- Look for special events, “Pay What You Can” performances and last-minute offers on the Playhouse website and social media.
- The guide also recommends downloading the Audiala app for ticket booking and staying connected through the Playhouse’s social media.
- London is generally safe; keep an eye on belongings and be mindful of local customs on public transport and when crossing roads (Dream Big Travel Far Blog, Candace Abroad).
The Playhouse’s social media channels are Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
Nearby places
Southwark Playhouse is near London Bridge, Borough and Elephant & Castle stations, and attractions including:
- Borough Market A historic food market and an option for pre-show dining.
- The Shard A nearby London landmark.
- Tate Modern A modern art museum across the river.
- Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre A riverside theatre.
- Imperial War Museum A museum with military history exhibitions.
The wider Southwark cultural landscape also includes Shakespeare’s Globe, Tate Modern and the Imperial War Museum (ChooseWhere).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are Southwark Playhouse’s visiting hours?
Venues typically open about one hour before performances. Performance days are usually Tuesday to Sunday, with shows starting between 7:30 pm and 8:00 pm. Box office hours are reported as 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm or 10:00 am to 7:00 pm on performance days; check the official website for exact times.
How do I buy tickets?
Tickets can be bought online through the official website or trusted platforms, by phone, or at the box office.
Is Southwark Playhouse wheelchair accessible?
Both venues have step-free access, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets and staff support.
Are discounts available?
Concessions are available for students, seniors and local residents; discounts for groups are also listed. Some performances offer “Pay What You Can” tickets.
Can I bring assistance dogs?
Yes. Assistance dogs are welcome.
