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= Having fun in London! =

With HUNDREDS of concerts to attend, parks to relax in, pubs to enjoy, and theatres to visit, it's absolutely Impossible to not have fun in London. With the help of this Wiki, we've broken down the best places to visit when it comes to entertainment. So be sure to check it out. Remember, there's never an excuse to say you're bored when you're living in one of the world's most exciting cities!

As one of the most popular cities on the globe, London frequently hosts some of the most demanded names across all spectrums of the entertainment industry. As far as musical entertainment goes, London offers everything from classic Elton John to the Jewish reggae artist, Matisyahu. Additionally, the city contains countless venues to suit each act. For the more popular artists, think Wembley Stadium and 02 Arena, while Alphabeat and Wilco take on smaller stages.
 * CONCERTS **

Here are a few of the musical artists dropping by while we’re here:  …and many more! Visit any of the following ticket-vendor sites below to get additional concert listings in London.
 * Lily Allen [Friday, November 27] [[image:http://www.smh.com.au/ffximage/2007/11/27/lily_allen_narrowweb__300x357,0.jpg width="269" height="315" align="right"]]
 * Genre: Rock, Pop, Dance
 * Location: Brixton Academy, SW9
 * Price: From £24
 * Muse  [Thursday, November 12 and Friday, November 13]
 * Genre: Rock, Pop
 * Location: 02 Arena
 * Price: from £64
 * Elton John  [Thursday, October 8]
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Genre: Rock, Pop
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Location: Wembley Arena
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Price: From £55 pounds
 * <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Green Day <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"> [Friday, October 23]
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Genre: Alternative, Rock
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Location: 02 Arena
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Price:From £36.99
 * <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Fleetwood Mac <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"> [Friday, October 30]
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Genre: Rock
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Location: Wembley Arena
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Price: From £79.10
 * <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Lil Wayne <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"> [Saturday, October 10][[image:http://sweiland.blog.uvm.edu/75matisyahu_416.jpg width="204" height="299" align="right"]]
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Genre: Rap
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Location: The Hammersmith Apollo
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Price: £103, standing
 * <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Matisyahu <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"> [Tuesday, October 13]
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Genre: Alternative
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Location: Carling Academy
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Price: £107
 * <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Wilco <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"> [Wednesday, November 4]
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Genre: Alternative
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Location: Forum London
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Price: £103.50
 * <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Alphabeat <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"> [Wednesday, November 4]
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Genre: Pop
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Location: The Heaven
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Price: £85, standing room
 * <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Jay-Z <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">[Wednesday, November 4] [[image:http://www.thesunblog.com/frosting/jay-z1.jpg width="250" height="250" align="right"]]
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Genre: Rap
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Location: Alexandra Palace
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Price: £68.99

Getting Tickets: There are various ways to get tickets to shows. First, try a trusted site, like ticketmaster. If tickets are sold out, search for other sites that allow third parties to sell their tickets. Expect higher prices! Here are some of the sites available: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"> <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"> Additionally, scalpers loiter outside of arenas offering tickets to last-minute attendees. But BEWARE! Scalpers will over-charge and may sell you fraudulent tickets.
 * Ticketmaster
 * Seatwave
 * Viagogo
 * <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">I used this site to purchase tickets for Coldplay at Wembley Arena. I only bought them about a week in advance but they arrived at CAPA right on time and I had no problems!
 * <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">World Ticket Shop

While it would be great to catch one of your favorite artists’ shows here in London, the pricey tickets might not fit into your budget. However, music-lovers looking for their live-music fix will find that many pubs host local bands on any given night. Listings of affordable live music can be found in the XX, the paper distributed around rush hour at any given Tube station. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">

Venues: 02 Arena <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"> and <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Wembley Stadium <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">are the most frequently used for the larger-scale shows. Both are located conveniently on underground lines. The o2 arena is located in Greenwich, which is off of the DLR line. Click the hyperlinks for more specific directions for navigating your way there.

Other concerts in smaller arenas will probably require more effort. Research your journey and leave early enough to allow time for getting lost! Additional bus rides and walking routes may be necessary after a tube ride. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Journey Planner <span style="color: #0e25e1; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"> is helpful in determining the best routes to take.

PARKS <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 130%;"> =Kensington Gardens= <span style="color: #008000; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Kensington Gardens is one of London’s Royal Parks and is conveniently located near the Queensway tube station on the central line. The park is clean, has restrooms nearby and offers everything you need for a perfect day in the park. On any sunny day you will see hundreds of visitors taking advantage of the weather in Kensington Gardens. The gardens are perfect for jogging, walking with children, dogs or friends or grabbing a bench to sit and read or people watch. Bikers frequently pedal through the park as well. Some of the park’s more unique attractions include the bronze statue or Peter Pan, located near the Serpentine Bridge. The statue was commissioned by J.M. Barrie in 1912 to mark the spot where Peter Pan entered the gardens to get to his home on Serpentine Island in the book //<span style="color: #008000; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens //<span style="color: #008000; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">.

Kensington Gardens also contains the opulent Albert Memorial. The memorial was commissioned by Queen Victoria after her husband’s death and consists of a canopy covering a statue of Albert with additional surrounding sculptures.

The Princess Diana Memorial Fountain is located in the northwest corner of the park. The simple memorial consists of a fountain where water “flows in two directions, falling in cascades, swirls, and bubbles before meeting in a calm pool at the bottom." The simple design of the fountain is meant to reflect Diana’s life.

Events in the Park

=Hyde Park= <span style="color: #008000; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Hyde Park, also among London’s Royal Gardens, is one of the largest urban parks in the world. Similar to many other parks in London, it is ideal for picnics, walks and bike rides. Countless benches are available for visitors interested in resting, sitting to read or to people watch.

The park’s unique assets include the Serpentine Lake, where many swimmers meet for early morning swims. For those hoping to stay dry, rowing and paddle-boats are available for rent. The park also contains two restaurants, The Lido and The Serpentine Bar and Kitchen for anyone interested in grabbing a bite to eat while enjoying the park’s atmosphere.

One of the more eclectic parts of Hyde Park is the Speaker’s Corner, where anyone interested in voicing any opinion can do so while standing on a soapbox. The only restriction is on obscene language.

Events in the Park

<span style="color: #a42323; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 130%;">RICHMOND PARK: <span style="color: #008000; display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;">The beautiful Richmond Park covers 2500 acres of land making it the largest Royal Park in London and certainly a must-see place in the city. Over 650 deer have made its home among Richmond's trees and hills. Not only is there a beautiful landscape, but there are many gardens, playgrounds, statues, and historical locations to visit. Richmond Park has been in existence for several centuries, and has recently been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The park's hours during the summer are between 7am until dusk, and in the winter 7:30am until dusk. The park is located near the Richmond station which can be easily reached by tube, rail, or even bus. The Red and Fallow deer can be found grazing among the park's protected and preserved pastures. The deer are considered an integral part of the park's landscape and history. During the fall, visitors can witness male bucks clashing antlers with each other to win the female's attention. It is always reminded to keep a safe distance from the deer so as not to cause any disturbances. **<span style="color: #008000; display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal; text-align: left;">The Isabella Plantation is considered another must-see attraction inside the park. If you're interested in bird watching, this is definitely the place to be. Also, the plantation is full of beautiful brooks and gardens each of which contain a beautiful, brightly colored flower. Lucky for us who are here in the fall and winter, this this garden will remain gorgeous all year long. ** **<span style="color: #008000; display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal; text-align: left;">For a look at St. Paul’s Cathedral, which is over 10 miles away, head to [|King Henry’s mound]. It was created centuries ago, and it has a beautiful view of the surrounding land. It’s also a great place to relax and rest for a bit. Spending an afternoon at the park can make you hungry. Luckily there are three refreshment spots located in the area. One is near Broomfield Hill, another is at Pen Ponds car park, and the third is at the Robin Hood Gate. Each stand serves drinks and snacks. If a restaurant is more your style, the Pembroke Lodge and Gardens is the place to go. It’s not hard to miss considering it’s a huge mansion surrounded by a beautiful garden. **<span style="color: #008000; display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: left;"> Richmond Park is designed for people of all ages. Parents are encouraged to bring their children here to run around, ride bikes, fly kites, or just have a lovely family picnic. There is even a golf course and a place to go fishing for some extra-special father/son outings. Spend as much time as you like, because the Richmond Park has everything you can ask for.

<span style="color: #a42323; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 130%;">REGENTS PARK: <span style="color: #008000; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">Regents Park is the perfect location for many activities, as it has the largest grass area for sports, picnics, etc. in Central London. Opening at 5 am every morning, Regents Park closes at various times throughout the year, depending on the season, weather, and other factors. This tourist attraction and local favorite was largely man made, contrary to popular belief due to the beautiful nature and wildlife. First using Regents Park as a hunting ground, Henry VIII made what he could out of this area which is now utilized <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 264%;"> <span style="color: #008000; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;"> for sporting events and much more.

From 9 am - 6:30 pm, there is a small fee to use the parking facilities, but it is also easily accessed via bus or tube. There is no time limit, however, on how long one's car is parked in the spot and cyclists/disabled badge holders are able to park for free, which is a nice perk.

In addition to the gorgeous surroundings and photo opportunities that this park possesses, Regents Park also houses several other facilities. The open air theatre, for instance, is open from the end of May until early September. Bandstands, the London Zoo, and puppet shows are also crowd favorites at this park. The Garden Cafe, located in Queen Mary's Garden, is also a nice place to go and enjoy a light meal. Near the Broadwalk, one can find The Honest Sausage where delicious bacon, bread, and of course sausage can be purchased. The Boathouse is another quiant restaurant situated next to the Boat Hire for families and children for a small fee. By the York Bridge, anyone can partake in some tennis at The Tennis Centre or enjoy some Dairy Ices found in several areas around the park.

There are several upcoming events held in Regents Park that many would be interested in listed below. [|Frieze Art Fair] <span style="color: #008000; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">October 15-18 [|The Queen Mary's Garden Guided Walk] <span style="color: #008000; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">October 15 & 29

Incorporated with the wildlife that Regents Park has to offer, The Wild in the Parks team have been working with local schools and children to keep the wildlife alive and fresh in this area of London. These volunteers and participants have been working hard on creating artwork via nature throughout the park. For instance, an 8 meter long newt sculpture has been created with many more to come. <span style="color: #008000; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;"> = Pubs: =

= Just A Few of London's 4500 Pubs! =

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">​ **<span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 130%;">History: ** In London, pubs have been around since the time of the Romans. Back then, the Romans established inns which provided a place to stay and beverages. Monks, for instance, provided beer for people who were passing through because it was safer than the water. This did not happen until years after the initial inns, though. In order to indicate a wine merchant at a particular beverage inn, there would be a sign hung up in front of the establishment. The signs continued, including pictures so that the illiterate were still able to understand what was inside. Today, pubs still have similar signs outside, shadows of what could have been seen in the days of the Romans. Another remnant of pub characteristics from history is the names of the pubs. In early years, the pubs were named based off of a religious figure or fact, such as The Red Lion or The Cross. In several pubs today, one might find pub games such as darts and pool. Darts could be considered a modern day version of archery, which would have been played outside of historical pubs.

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 120%;">**Finding A Pub Near You:** Because London has over 4,000 pubs, it is not a difficult task to find one that is nearby. With the easy-to-use bus and tube systems, there are ways to any pub that a person would wish to visit. Here's a website where one can simply enter the name of a pub he/she wants to find, OR enter the name of a tube station, in which the results will filter which pubs are closest to said tube station! [] <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 120%;">​ Aren't familiar with the tube system? Click [|here].

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 130%;">**<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 150%;">Pub Options From... ** > >
 * Ealing Broadway [[image:ealing_broadway.jpg width="227" height="133" align="center" caption="www.panoramio.com/photo/1528628"]]
 * [|The North Star] is a pub located centrally in Ealing Broadway amidst many shops and restaurants. This over 21 pub is open Mon-Sat 12-11 pm and Sun 12-10:30 pm. In addition to some of the best beer in town, food is also served at The North Star Mon-Sat 12-10 pm and Sun 12-9:30 pm. With access for the disabled, The North Star is also available for Christmas bookings, as well as other holiday attractions. Daily specials are also offered. 43 The Broadway, London, W5 5JN. TEL: 0208 579 0863
 * [|O'Neils] is an (over 21) Irish pub well-known for their live music nights, sure to attract a nice crowd. Combining some excellent pub food and rich Irish ale or whiskey makes for the perfect evening at O'Neils. This pub opens every day at 12 pm and closes at 11 pm Mon- Thurs, 1 am Fri-Sat, and 10:30 pm on Sun. 24-25 High Street, Ealing, London, W5 5DB. TEL: 020 8579 4107
 * [|Wetherspoon] is a fantastic pub for a wide range of ages. Welcome to anyone over 18, Wetherspoon's fun atmosphere is popular to the young adults whereas the older adults can be attracted to the rich alcohol choices offered. Mon-Thurs: 9 am- 11:30 pm, Fri-Sat: 9 am- 12:30 pm, Sun: 10 am- 11:30 pm. 46-47 The Mall, Ealing, London, W5 3TJ. TEL: 020 8799 2850


 * Piccadilly/Soho/Covent Gardens


 * [|De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar] located between Chinatown and Theatreland, is a well-priced pub located centrally between the Leicester Sq. and Piccadilly Circus tube stations. Open Mon-Sat until 12:00 am, De Hems includes a variety of beer in addition to its delicious food. 11 Macclesfield Street, Theatreland, London, W1D 5BW. TEL: 020 7437 2491
 * [|Salsa! Bar & Restaurant] mixes the Latin American vibe into an English culture, fixed near the Leicester Sq. tube station. Anyone over 18 can come and enjoy the cultural food, special offered drinks, and fun salsa dancing Mon-Sat 5:3- pm-2 am and Sun 6 pm- Midnight. Entrance free for Diners Sun-Thu Free before 9.00 pm, £4.00 after 9.00pm and Fri-Sat: From £2.00-£10.00 depending on time of arrival. Live bands and DJs are often featured here, leaving little else to desire from one club! TEL: 020 7379 3277
 * [|Fifty Five Bar and Lounge] rated one of the highest in pubs around this area. Swing by for Fifty Five's 2-4-1 happy hour every day from 6-8 pm, chosing from any of the 160 cocktails. Features a mellow atmosphere, with formally lit booths and a seated bar. 31 Jamestown Road, London, NW1 7DB. TEL: 020 7424 9054


 * South Bank and London Bridge


 * [|Market Porter] is not only fun for a night out, but a popular movie scene location. Scenes from well-known movies such as "Lock, Stock" and "Mission Impossible" have been shot in this location, heightening this pub's crowd. Located near The London Bridge, Market Porter features ales, ciders, and other whiskeys at reasonable prices. 9 Stoney Street, Borough, London, SE1 9AA. TEL: 020 7407 2495
 * [|The Rose] is a humble pub, suitable for any ages. Able to enjoy a nice game of pool in the back room in addition to the drink selection. 123 Snowfields, SE1 3ST. TEL: 087 1258 9762

​
 * Thames River
 * [|The Grapes] is a historical bar, dating back to Charles Dickens, who used to stand on the tables and sing to the customers. While one cannot find this type of entertainment anymore, The Grapes does offer a delicious selection of seafood, a <span style="color: #a42323; font-family: Tahoma,Geneva,sans-serif;">rustic atmosphere, a back bar, open fire, and a deck that looks over the Thames River.76 Narrow Street, Lime <span style="color: #a42323; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">h ouse, London, E14 8BP. TEL: 020 7987 4396
 * [|The Mayflower], one of the most famous pubs on the river, was named after the ship which carried in the Pilgrim Fathers to America. Its modern building and interior houses many desired ales and spirits, attracting many locals and tourists. 117 Rotherinthe Street, SE16 4NF. TEL: 0871 258 6162

= THEATRE: = London is a city famously <span style="color: #800080; font-family: Tahoma,Geneva,sans-serif;">known for its culture, theatre. In fact, London is The theatre capital of the world! There are well over 100 theaters in the city of London, many of them belongin g to what is known as the West End. Not only are there regular "dramatic" theaters, but also [|Ballet theaters] and Opera Houses.

For the purpose of being practical (and sane), we will take a look at some of London's most popular theaters, the history and success of the theatre, and what theatre is like in modern day London- including shows, times, ticket prices, reviews, and other important information.

<span style="color: #1212c4; font-family: Impact,Charcoal,sans-serif; font-size: 140%;">HISTORY: Before the first theatre was built, most plays and shows were performed in courtyards and inns throughout the city. But soon enough, construction began on something more stable. The first true Theatre, as we call it now, can date back to 1576. The owner, James Burbage, obtained the license to build the playhouse which he aptly named "The Theatre". Throughout the Elizabethan Era, three significant theaters were built. The Rose Theater was built in 1587. The Hope Theater was built in 1613. And the most famous of them all, The Globe Theatre, home of Shakespeare's greatest works, was built in 1599. <span style="color: #1212c4; font-family: Impact,Charcoal,sans-serif; font-size: 140%;">THE GLOBE THEATRE: The Globe theatre was built by a carpenter named Peter Smith. It quickly became one of London's most magnificent theaters with the capacity of holding several thousand people! The Globe was not only a play house. It was also known for hosting brothel meetings and gambling. Its location was just off the South Bank of the River Thames. Its architecture was superb, and it welcomed people of any class. Most peasants who came to see a production stood at the foot of the stage to watch the play. Any trip to the Globe Theatre was an exciting event. Needless to say, it was a huge success. Hundreds upon thousands of plays were shown at The Globe. As quickly as a play was written, it was produced.

Although there were countless actors, directors, and writers throughout the Globe's history, one name stands out more than any other: William Shakespeare. Here is the theatre where his most treasured and famous plays were produced to the public for the very first time. With the help of the Globe, Shakespeare helped introduce special effects such as flying and trap doors to different plays, numerous different types of props, and even music!

Unfortunately, the Globe theatre was not thought of fondly by everyone. Religious leaders and "respectable" members of London society objected to its housing of brothels and gambling. Some thought it to be unclean in the way that so many people in such a small place could help spread diseases more easily. On June 29, 1613, a fire broke out at the Globe theatre destroying the massive building. There is no remains of any pictures of the inside of the Globe theater. But in 1614 it was rebuilt. By 1642, under the role of English Parliament, and pressure of the Puritans , theatre was banned from the city of London in order to create a better way of living. By 1644, the Globe Theater was demolished by the Puritans and was never rebuilt. Today, visitors and natives can find a New Globe Theatre which has been built in recognition of the original Globe theater close to its original location. Shows and tours are provided daily with the attempt to keep the Globe theater alive even today.

Today, it is easy to catch any number of Shakespearean or classic plays at any given day of the week. The easiest way to find out what show is playing, when, and available seating/ticket prices is to visit the Globe theatre Website. For an exhibition and tour of the globe theatre, tickets can range from 6.50 to 10.50. Students with a valid ID can get this for only 8.50! If one would just like to see a spectacular show, there are plenty of options to look at. Ticket prices can range from 12 pounds to 33 pounds. But maybe you don't want to sit for the show. If that's the case, then for only 5 pounds, one can get a standing view at the foot of the stage to watch the performance! It's just like being back in Shakespeare's time.

The 2009 theatre season consists of a few truly inspiring shows. For more information, it is key to check out the website for any updates on new shows coming to town, ticket availability, and show times.
 * "As You Like It " runs until October 10, and stars some great up and coming actors. With a run time of 2 hours and 35 minutes, you are assured that you will not be bored. The show has received nothing but good reviews about how charming and lovely it is.
 * "[|A New World] " was written by Trevor Griffiths and it runs until October 9th. Although not a Shakespeare original, reviews have shown it to be "jaw dropping" and "original". This is actually the show's World Premier, and with a run time of 3 hours, be prepared for a long one.
 * "Love's Labour's Lost " also runs until October 10. Although there are not quite so many reviews of the show, all of them seem to boast the same thing: it's quality of landing the funny jokes. It's run time is 2 hours and 50 minutes.

WEST END: The word West End has become a popular term used to describe the popular, professional theatre productions staged in London's largest theatres. In the United Kingdom, it is the equivalent to the United States' NYC Broadway. Not only is it a great tourist attraction in the city, but popular among London's citizens. In 2007, the total number of attendance reached over 13 million! West End's first theatre is known as the Theatre Royal. The Theatre Royal is presently known as The Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. The original theatre was built in 1663 but was destroyed by a fire 9 years later. Over time, West End expanded its stretch across London acquiring dozens of theatres that are still around today. Looking at the continuous change of musical and play advertisements around the city, it is easy to see that there is always something to watch no matter what your interest is! From traditional plays such as Shakespeare's Macbeth, to vibrant new musicals such as Wicked , there is no way to steer wrong. Some of West End's most popular shows to this day are "Les Miserables ", "Phantom of the Opera ", "Chicago ", "[|The Lion King] ", "STOMP ", and more! West End has also laid the groundwork for many now-famous actors from both the UK and the US such as Dame Judi Dench and Rob Lowe.

Because West End is a host for so many popular theatre locations, the West End Map will help navigate between them all in order to find which theatre you are actually looking for. Since there is such variety to each one, lets look at today's most popular shows to see which ones are located in these different theatres. A complete list of West End Theatre tickets can be found here.


 * "Billy Elliot " is based off the famous British movie which tells the story of a young, working class boy who dreams of one day becoming a ballet dancer. It opened in April, 2007 and will currently run until December 2010. It is playing at the Victoria Palace Theatre almost every night with an occasional matinee. The reviews are excellent, talking about the music written by Sir Elton John and inspiring dance sequences. Ticket prices range from 30 pounds to 84 pounds.
 * "Dirty Dancing " may be particularly popular for American viewers and is playing at the Aldwych Theatre. Also based off the hit movie, it tells the story of a summer love between two unlikely people who come together through dance. It opened in October 2007 with the hopes of running until October 2010 with a show almost every night. Ticket prices range between 33 and 78 pounds.
 * "The Lion King " has been nothing but a success ever since its premier in January 2004. It will currently run until October 2010 with performances almost every day. This musical is located in the Lyceum theatre and tickets can sometimes be hard to come by due to its popularity. Tickets range in price between 29.50 and 84 pounds. It is a must see for many West End Visitors.
 * "Calendar Girls " is a play based on the movie about women who persuade each other to pose nude in a calendar to raise money for charity. Many reviews agree that this play is a breath of fresh air with a heartwarming story line. It is showing at Noel Coward Theatre and only opened in April 2009 with a current run until January 2010. Tickets for this new hit can range from 24.50 to 62 pounds.
 * "Wicked " is the award winning musical which has brought many people to discover the "truth" behind the Wizard of Oz. Located in the Apollo Victoria Theatre, it began running in September 2006 and will currently run until October 2010. This show is never short on good reviews from its incredible story to the fantastic music. Tickets can range between 20 and 76 pounds. But book quickly, because this show also sells out fast!

Unfortunately, a lot of West End shows do not advertise or offer student discounts. But do not let that deter you from giving the world's greatest theatres a try! Some shows offer student discounts whenever you buy a ticket on the day of the show at the actual box office, but not all theatres offer this discount. Luckily, the internet is always here to help, and some websites are worth looking at while searching for inexpensive West End ticket prices such as the Official London Theatre Guide. Also, although there is no specific dress code in order to gain access to West End theatres, it is always nice to look your best. A nice "church" outfit always seems appropriate for the occasion. Additionally, West End has countless restaurants located outside and around each of its theatres. For a reasonable price, it's a great experience to enjoy Dinner and a Show!

REFERENCES: http://www.albemarle-london.com/PickList/TheatreLocation.php http://www.william-shakespeare.info/william-shakespeare-globe-theatre.htm http://www.shakespeares-globe.org/theatre/annualtheatreseason/loveslabourslost/ http://www.theatrehistory.com/british/londons_vibrant_west_end.html http://www.westendtheatrebookings.com/?gclid=CJiel4aZsZ0CFWAB4wodUgjBiA http://www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk/family_theatre/student_standbys/ [|http://www.londontreasures.com/index_pub.htm] [] http://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/richmond_park/ http://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/hyde_park/events.cfm http://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/kensington_gardens/