The launch of the Gillian Lynne Theatre
West End Unscripted! Sir Derek Jacobi & Special Guests Tickets: An Intimate Theatrical Evening in London
Calling all theatre lovers visiting London! Elevate your UK adventure with tickets to West End Unscripted! Sir Derek Jacobi & Special Guests, a one-night-only celebrity Q&A event at the Gillian Lynne Theatre on Monday, 12 May 2025. This exclusive series, headlined by the legendary Sir Derek Jacobi, offers an intimate glimpse into the world of stage and screen while raising over £10,000 for a charity of Jacobi’s choosing. Perfect for tourists seeking a unique West End experience, this event promises captivating stories, surprise guests, and a touch of theatrical magic. Book your tickets with Theatre London for direct pricing, PayPal convenience, and a chance to be part of a charitable, star-studded evening. Don’t miss this unforgettable night!
Why West End Unscripted! is a Must-See for London Tourists
West End Unscripted! is not your typical West End show—it’s a dynamic, unscripted Q&A that brings you face-to-face with theatre and film icons. On 12 May 2025, the spotlight shines on Sir Derek Jacobi, a knighted British actor renowned for his BAFTA-winning role in I, Claudius, Shakespearean triumphs (Hamlet, King Lear), and screen appearances in Gladiator, The Crown, and Last Tango in Halifax. Hosted by double Olivier Award-winning director Sean Foley (Dr. Strangelove) and moderated by acclaimed actor Richard Clifford, the evening features personal anecdotes, behind-the-scenes insights, and possibly a musical number or two. Additional surprise guests, to be announced closer to the date, will add to the excitement.
For tourists, this event at the Gillian Lynne Theatre offers a rare chance to connect with theatre royalty in the heart of London’s West End, near Covent Garden and Drury Lane. The modern, accessible venue, with its vibrant history of hosting shows like Cats and War Horse, is surrounded by iconic attractions and dining options, making it a perfect evening hub. Suitable for ages 4+ (children under 4, including babes in arms, not admitted; under 15s must be accompanied by an adult 18+ and cannot sit alone), this event is ideal for theatre fans, culture enthusiasts, and families seeking an inspiring night out. With a TBC runtime (likely 90–120 minutes, no interval) and BSL interpretation, it’s an inclusive, impactful experience that supports a meaningful cause.
Fascinating Facts About West End Unscripted!
- Charitable Impact: Each event donates over £10,000 to a charity chosen by the honouree, with Jacobi’s selected cause to be revealed, ensuring audiences contribute to meaningful change.
- Critical Acclaim: The series debuted in March 2025 at Theatre Royal Drury Lane with Nick Mohammed, Phil Dunster, Sarah Hadland, and Andy Nyman, earning raves for its “intimate and inspiring” format (WhatsOnStage).
- Star Power: Sir Derek Jacobi, knighted in 1994, is a founding member of the Royal National Theatre and celebrated for his “rare alchemy” of precision and emotional depth, as noted by producer Tegan Summer.
- Exclusive Series: West End Unscripted! is a new venture by producer Tegan Summer, blending celebrity Q&As with charitable giving, with past events featuring Ted Lasso and Miranda stars.
- Theatre Legacy: The Gillian Lynne Theatre, once called the New London Theatre, hosted iconic productions like Cats (1981–2002) and War Horse, adding prestige to this event.
Meet the Stellar Lineup and Creative Team
The 12 May 2025 event features a distinguished lineup, with more guests to be announced:
- Sir Derek Jacobi (Honouree): A stage and screen legend, Jacobi’s career spans I, Claudius (BAFTA winner), Shakespearean roles at the RSC and National Theatre, and films like Gosford Park and Murder on the Orient Express. His “profound emotional depth” makes him a captivating centerpiece.
- Sean Foley (Host): A double Olivier Award-winning director (The Play What I Wrote, Dr. Strangelove), Foley brings wit and warmth, guiding the conversation with his theatre expertise.
- Richard Clifford (Special Guest Moderator): An acclaimed actor (Much Ado About Nothing, Cyrano de Bergerac), Clifford adds insight and charm as Jacobi’s moderator.
- Additional Guests: Two surprise guests, likely drawn from Jacobi’s circle of celebrated peers, will join, with past events featuring stars like Nick Mohammed (Ted Lasso) and Sarah Hadland (Miranda).
The event is produced and directed by Tegan Summer, a visionary producer whose passion for storytelling and charity drives the series. Summer’s team ensures a polished, engaging evening that celebrates theatre’s finest.
Why Book West End Unscripted! Tickets with Theatre London?
At Theatre London, we make your West End experience seamless, affordable, and unforgettable, especially for tourists. Here’s why we’re your top choice for West End Unscripted! tickets:
- Direct Tickets, No Overpaying: Our direct tickets from the Gillian Lynne Theatre box office start at £14, with exclusive offers like up to 51% off (from £15), including a £1.70 restoration levy.
- Pay with PayPal: Enjoy secure and easy PayPal payments, perfect for international visitors seeking a trusted booking process.
- Group Discounts: Book for 10 or more and unlock special rates; submit requests via lwtheatres.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 3925 2998.
- Free E-Tickets: Receive free, instant e-tickets for mobile access or self-printing, simplifying your visit.
- Charitable Impact: Your ticket supports a £10,000+ donation to Jacobi’s chosen charity, making your evening both entertaining and meaningful.
Performance Details and Planning Your Visit
- Venue: Gillian Lynne Theatre, 166 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5PW
- Performance Date: Monday, 12 May 2025, at 7:30 PM (doors at 6:30 PM)
- Run Time: TBC (estimated 90–120 minutes, no interval)
- Performance Schedule: One-night-only event
- Age Restrictions: Suitable for ages 4+; children under 4 (including babes in arms) not admitted. Under 15s must be accompanied by an adult (18+) and cannot sit alone in the auditorium.
- Content Advisory: Features live Q&A with potential mild language or mature themes; includes BSL interpretation for accessibility.
- Accessibility:
- Step-free access through double swing doors to the foyer; lowered counter at the box office.
- Wheelchair spaces in the Stalls; 32 steps to Stalls, 41 to rear Stalls, 65 to Dress Circle (3 steep steps between rows).
- Infrared hearing system and assistance dogs welcome (staff can dog-sit; email [email protected]).
- Access performances: This event is BSL-interpreted; contact +44 (0)20 3925 2998 for access bookings.
- Seating Notes: Stalls offer the best proximity to the stage; Dress Circle may be distant due to 65 steps. Check the interactive seat plan at lwtheatres.co.uk for optimal views.
Getting There:
- Tube: Covent Garden (Piccadilly line, 4-minute walk); Holborn (Central/Piccadilly lines, 5-minute walk); Tottenham Court Road (Elizabeth/Central lines, 8-minute walk).
- Train: Charing Cross (10-minute walk).
- Bus: Routes 1, 6, 9, 11, 15, 23, 59, 68, 91, 139, 168, 171, 176, 188, 243; stops at Drury Lane or Kingsway.
- Parking: Limited street parking; nearest Q-Park at Chinatown (10-minute walk).
Dining and Nearby Attractions: Enjoy pre-show dining at The Portrait by Richard Corrigan for upscale British cuisine or Dishoom Covent Garden for vibrant Indian dishes, both within a 5-minute walk. After the event, explore Covent Garden’s shops, visit the Royal Opera House, or take a twilight stroll to Trafalgar Square. The Gillian Lynne Theatre’s central location makes it a hub for London’s cultural treasures.
Make Your London Trip Unforgettable
A London visit isn’t complete without a brush with theatrical greatness, and West End Unscripted! Sir Derek Jacobi & Special Guests delivers an intimate, inspiring evening with one of Britain’s finest actors. From Jacobi’s captivating stories to Sean Foley’s witty hosting and Richard Clifford’s insightful moderation, this Q&A, enriched by surprise guests, promises to entertain, move, and support a worthy cause. Following its acclaimed March 2025 debut, this event is a hot ticket for theatre lovers, with posts on X buzzing about its star power.
Don’t miss this one-night-only event! Book your West End Unscripted! tickets now through Theatre London for direct pricing, PayPal convenience, group discounts, and free e-tickets. Secure your seats today and join the celebration at the Gillian Lynne Theatre!
Book Your West End Unscripted! Tickets Now
Reviews
Win two tickets to West End Unscripted - WhatsOnStage
8 May 2025 - WhatsOnStageWin two tickets to West End Unscripted WhatsOnStage...
West End Unscripted! Sir Derek Jacobi And Special Guests - Official London Theatre
18 March 2025 - Official London TheatreWest End Unscripted! Sir Derek Jacobi And Special Guests Official London Theatre...
West End Unscripted! Celebrity Q&A Series Announced, Raising £10,000+ for Charity Each Night - West End Theatre
17 February 2025 - West End TheatreWest End Unscripted! Celebrity Q&A Series Announced, Raising £10,000+ for Charity Each Night West End Theatre...
Celebrity Q&A series – West End Unscripted announced - Theatre Weekly
17 February 2025 - Theatre WeeklyCelebrity Q&A series – West End Unscripted announced Theatre Weekly...