Why does the person in the centre of the row always arrive last? (New Victoria Theatre (Woking))

Member Name: cmh4135

Product:	New Victoria Theatre (Woking)
Date:	13/08/09 (75 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: A good modern theatre with off-West End productions

Disadvantages: Perhaps lacking in character

The New Vic is actually a bit of a gem. Part of the Ambassadors group (which has many London West End venues as well) it sees a lot of pre-and post West End tours come to the stage.

The stage itself is large enough to accommodate most productions and the rake is fine. Sets can be as lavish as the West End and yet simpler set ups work equally well. About once a year an ice show will come to the theatre (giving an idea of the size).

Shows tend to run for a week at a time save for the panto and other major shows, the former of which runs for about 10 weeks and the latter 2-3. There are also often one off comedy or music performances from local, national and international artists. There is a good mix of genres from plays to musicals, opera to rock.

The auditorium is modern (opened in 1992) and there are few "duff" seats. Those to avoid are the last rows of the stalls, particularly to either side where the acoustics are lost, either edge of the first few rows of the circle and upper circle (as the angle of view is poor) and the very upper back of the theatre because again you lose the acoustics. Seats are comfortable and there is sufficient leg room for larger patrons. The auditorium rake and seat positioning is sufficiently good to allow a good view even if there's someone tall in front of you. Boosters are available for children.

Special offers are always available and standby tickets can be bought in person on the day for most productions although some will be limited to concessions (including students). "Friends" discounts apply if you join as a member and membership fees are reasonable if you want to see more than a couple of shows a year. Major productions will normally cost around £30 for a top priced ticket with minors around the £10-20 mark depending upon the show. I think this compares very favourably to the West End for, essentially, the same shows.

Refreshments are reasonably priced and the two bars are well staffed at intervals.

As ever the place would benefit from more female toilets!

Parking can be had in the shopping centre car parks (pay on exit when charges apply) and it is possible, as a result, to get level access to this venue despite it being situated above ground level. If you are coming by car it's worth noting that it can take a while to get out of the car park at the end of the performance. This can be avoided by parking in the "Yellow" or "Toys R Us" car parks which tend to be quieter but not much further away.

It's worth taking note of the programme of events here as you may just catch a cracker before it hits the West End stage. With tickets at a fraction of the price of the West End you'd be silly not to.

Summary: A superb local theatre that benefits from being part of a West End group.