As You Like It Play in London

What is "As You Like It" About?

As You Like It is one of Shakespeare's most beloved comedies, written in 1599. It follows Rosalind, a noblewoman banished from her uncle's court, who escapes into the Forest of Arden disguised as a young man, accompanied by her cousin Celia and the jester Touchstone.

In the forest, everything changes. Social rules dissolve, identities blur, and love runs wild. Rosalind's lovesick Orlando wanders the same woods, pinning bad poetry to trees in her honour — not realising the mysterious stranger he confides in is Rosalind herself. The disguise lets her test his love while falling deeper into her own.

At its heart, the play asks what happens when people escape the roles the world gives them. The forest is a place of freedom — where a duke lives like a philosopher, a noblewoman passes as a shepherd boy, and love, in all its ridiculous and wonderful forms, gets to find its own way.

Interesting Facts

• The story of Back to the Future the Musical stays true to the 1985 film because the musical’s book was written by original co-creator Bob Gale, with Robert Zemeckis closely involved in adapting the story for the stage.

• One of the most talked-about elements of the Back to the Future stage show in London is the DeLorean time machine. Using advanced stage engineering, lighting, and projections, the car appears to defy gravity, creating one of the most technically ambitious moments currently seen in West End theatre.

• Back to the Future the Musical in London is critically acclaimed. The production won Best New Musical at the WhatsOnStage Awards and received major recognition at the Olivier Awards, confirming its status as one of London’s standout modern musicals.

• The musical features original songs written for the stage by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard, alongside instantly recognisable tracks from the film.

Back to the Future Musical Cast in London

The current Back to the Future Musical London cast at the Adelphi Theatre blends celebrated talent and rising stars, each contributing to the show’s vibrant energy and unforgettable spectacle.

• Caden Brauch – Marty McFly

• Brian Conley – Doc Brown

• Maddie Grace Jepson – Lorraine Baines

• Orlando Gibbs – George McFly

• C.J. Borger – Goldie Wilson / Marvin Berry

• Alex Runicles – Biff Tannen

• Talia Palamathanan – Jennifer Parker

• Liam McHugh – Dave McFly

• Lee Ormsby – Alternate Doc Brown / Strickland

• Gracie Caine – Linda McFly

• Oliver Halford – Alternate Marty McFly

This talented Back to the Future West End cast is praised for its dynamic performance quality, seamlessly blending high-octane musical numbers with heartfelt character moments that resonate with both longtime fans of the film and theatre newcomers. The performers bring impeccable timing, boundless energy, and genuine chemistry to the stage, creating a spectacular theatrical experience that captures the imagination and nostalgia of the story’s time-bending journey.

Creatives

• Music & Lyrics: Alan Silvestri & Glen Ballard

• Book (Script): Bob Gale

• Director: John Rando

• Choreographer: Chris Bailey

• Set & Costume Designer: Tim Hatley

• Lighting Designer: Hugh Vanstone

• Sound Designer: Gareth Owen

• Illusions: Paul Kieve

• Video Designer: Finn Ross

The West End production is powered by a world-class creative team that translates the iconic film into a spectacular live experience. The music composer duo Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard deliver an electrifying score featuring original songs alongside themes inspired by the iconic film music, while Bob Gale’s Back to the Future musical script faithfully preserves the heart, humour, and time-travel adventure fans know and love. Combined with innovative direction, choreography, and stage illusions, this makes the musical one of London’s most technically impressive and entertaining shows.

Back to The Future Musical Age Rating

The Back to the Future musical age rating makes this West End production suitable for kids aged 6 and over. Please note that the musical includes loud sound effects and flashing lights.

Families familiar with the original film will find the story easy to follow, with humour and visual spectacle that appeal to both younger viewers and adults. When booking Back to the Future musical tickets, parents can feel confident choosing this show as an exciting, family-friendly option that delivers classic entertainment with a modern West End production style.

Running Time

The Back to the Future the Musical running time is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes, including one interval. This makes it a full-length West End production, giving audiences plenty of time to enjoy the spectacular staging, iconic music, and time-travelling adventure brought to life on stage. The show is divided into two acts, with a comfortable intermission that allows guests to relax, grab refreshments, and explore the theatre before the action resumes.

About the Theatre

The Victoria Palace Theatre is one of London’s most iconic West End venues, located just moments from Victoria Station in the heart of the city. First opened in 1911, the theatre has a long and distinguished history of hosting major musical productions and large-scale theatrical events that have shaped London’s entertainment scene for over a century. Today, audiences from around the world visit to experience Hamilton at the theatre in London, enjoying both the historic atmosphere and state-of-the-art production values.

Originally built on the site of a former music hall, the venue quickly became known for its grand Edwardian design and excellent sightlines. Over the decades, it has welcomed everything from classic revues to modern blockbuster musicals, earning a reputation as a theatre perfectly suited for high-energy, visually dynamic shows.

The combination of heritage architecture and modern technical upgrades makes the venue ideal for a fast-paced, musically rich production. Seeing Hamilton at the Victoria Palace Theatre offers a truly authentic West End experience, blending theatre history with one of the most influential musicals of our time.

How to Get

Tube & Train

The nearest station is Victoria, served by the Victoria, District, and Circle Underground lines, as well as National Rail services including Gatwick Express, Southern, Thameslink, and Southeastern.

Bus

Several bus routes stop nearby. Bus Stop M is served by routes 11, 24, 148, 211, 507, N11, N44, and N136. Bus Stop G is served by routes 11, 170, 211, and N11.

Car & Parking

The theatre has no on-site parking. Limited disabled parking bays are available on Carlisle Place, subject to availability. Public car parks can be found within walking distance, though public transport is strongly recommended.

Walking

From Victoria Station, the theatre is just a short, well-signposted walk, making arrival quick and stress-free.

Seating Plan

The Victoria Palace Theatre seating plan for Hamilton is designed to suit a large ensemble production, with clear sightlines toward the stage and impressive acoustics throughout. The auditorium is arranged across Stalls, Royal Circle, and Grand Circle, with a traditional horseshoe layout that offers strong views from most seats.

The Stalls are ideal for those who want to feel close to the action, particularly rows in the central section where the stage height and rake provide an immersive view. For many visitors, these are considered the best seats for Hamilton in London, balancing proximity with full-stage visibility.

The Royal Circle offers a slightly elevated perspective, perfect for appreciating choreography, lighting, and staging as a whole. It’s a popular choice for repeat viewers who want a broader view of the production’s detail and movement.

The Grand Circle is the highest level but still delivers a powerful experience thanks to excellent sound design. It’s also where many budget-friendly Hamilton West End tickets can be found, making it a great option for those seeking value without sacrificing atmosphere.

Facilities & Accessibility

The venue is well equipped to ensure a comfortable visit for all guests attending Hamilton at the Victoria Palace Theatre:

• Step-free access to the Stalls via Allington Street

• Wheelchair spaces available in Stalls Boxes A & F, with companion seating

• Transfer seating on aisle seats in the Stalls

• Accessible toilets in the Stalls and in Pavlova’s Bar

• Licensed bars and merchandise kiosks on every level

• Cloakroom available for coats and small bags (small charge applies)

• Trained Access Hosts available to assist guests on arrival

• Enhanced security checks, including detection dogs

Where to Eat Before Hamilton in London

Inside the theatre, fully licensed bars operate on every level, serving a selection of drinks and light snacks before the performance and during the interval. Please note that outside food and drink are not permitted, and hot food is not served on site.

There is a wide selection of cafés, pubs, and restaurants near Hamilton in London. Whether you’re looking for a quick pre-show bite or a relaxed post-performance dinner, you’ll find plenty of options within a short walk of the venue. The Victoria area offers everything from casual dining to upscale international cuisine, including modern British brasseries, Italian trattorias, Asian fusion restaurants, and classic pubs, all within easy walking distance of the theatre.