Before being completely rebuilt in 1998, the Shaw Theatre originally opened its doors in 1971 as part of the St Pancras Library. The opening production was the legendary show ZIGGAR ZAGGER with a cast that included Barrie Rutter and Paula Wilcox. In 1972 Simon Ward and Sinead Cusack appeared in ROMEO & JULIET, later in the same year Vanessa Redgrave, Nyree Dawn Porter and Windsor Davis starred in TWELFTH NIGHT. Other stars who appeared in the early days include Sir Ian McKellen, Mia Farrow, Julia McKenzie and Raymond Francis. The theatre hosted a series of SUNDAY NIGHTS AT THE SHAW with luminary artistes including Dame Judi Dench, Dame Flora Robson, Patricia Routledge CBE and the late Michael Williams.

The theatre is now fully refurbished with 446 comfortable seats, all commanding an excellent view of the stage. It has two large foyers, six large dressing rooms for up to 60 people and extensive high quality backstage facilities which include a props store, workshop space and laundry facilities.

Recent stars who have performed here include Van Morrison, Harry Connick Jr, Ron Moody, and Janie Dee who’s concert included a surprise performance by Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber. The very successful AN EVENING WITH... nights included Tony Benn, Ann Widdecombe, Sir John Mortimer and Nicholas Parsons, the latter also recently recorded his radio show JUST A MINUTE here.

For members of the public there is disabled access, excellent cloakroom facilities and a large bar serving drinks and refreshments. The two capacious foyers make ideal exhibition spaces.

The theatre is located beside the British Library, and soon to be refurbished St Pancras Station - currently under refurbishment, equidistant from King's Cross and Euston Stations, which makes it one of the most accessible in London. The major redevelopments in the area, which includes the Channel Tunnel Rail Link, makes this a flourishing location. There is ample free car parking in the evenings.

The theatre is connected to the 4 star Novotel Hotel whom we have a close working relationship with.

The theatre is suitable for all types of entertainment with particular focus on music, concerts and stand up comedy. Equally our artistic policy is to present high quality drama from funded regional and independent theatre companies for medium length runs.  The Shaw Theatre has a high technical specification and offers extremely comfortable seating.  If you are interested in hiring the venue or discussing a potential production at the Shaw Theatre please visit venue hire on this site for further details.