Young Vic

The Young Vic is a producing theatre on The Cut in Waterloo. Founded in 1970 as an offshoot of the Old Vic, it was conceived as a ‘paperback theatre’: ambitious work made affordable and accessible. It is known as a directors’ theatre, with a programme spanning new writing, reimagined classics and international work.

The present building was redesigned around Bill Howell’s original thrust-stage auditorium and the surviving former butcher’s-shop foyer. The redevelopment added a larger foyer bar and two studio theatres while preserving the intimate relationship between performers and audiences.

The Young Vic’s Access scheme is for deaf, disabled and neurodivergent visitors. Members can book accessible seating online, including wheelchair spaces and transfer seats, and receive adjusted prices for themselves and a companion. No proof of disability is required.

Free Sennheiser assisted-listening devices are available for every performance, with headphones or an induction neck loop. The theatre also schedules audio-described performances with touch tours, BSL-interpreted performances, captioned performances and relaxed performances. Assistance dogs are welcome; contact the Box Office in advance so the team can help arrange suitable seating. For specific requirements, contact boxoffice@youngvic.org or 020 7922 2922.

The Young Vic is at 66 The Cut, London SE1 8LZ. Waterloo, Waterloo East and Southwark stations are all around a five-minute walk away. Waterloo serves National Rail and the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City lines; Southwark is on the Jubilee line.

Cycle racks are available outside the theatre. If you need step-free travel, parking or a drop-off point, check current TfL and local parking information before setting out, as routes and restrictions can change.

Founded in 1970, the Young Vic began as an offshoot of the Old Vic and the National Theatre. Director Frank Dunlop shaped it as an unconventional, international and affordable ‘paperback theatre’ for a new generation.

Architect Bill Howell designed the original building on The Cut. It was intended to last only five years, but its thrust-stage auditorium became central to the theatre’s identity. Around 2000, Haworth Tompkins redesigned the venue around that auditorium and the surviving former butcher’s-shop foyer, adding two studio theatres, a larger foyer bar and improved backstage spaces.

Allow time to arrive before the performance: latecomers may be asked to wait for a suitable break and admission is not guaranteed. Recording performances is not permitted.

The Cut Bar and Restaurant is inside the Young Vic and serves food and drinks before performances. Facilities, age guidance and running arrangements can vary by production, so check the event page and your pre-visit information before travelling.