London's West End has a rich and unique collection of theatres, ranging in date from the early 19th century to the end of the 20th; more than fifty are located within an area of two square miles. This book celebrates the working buildings at the heart of the British theatrical industry. It explores what constitutes a West End theatre, both culturally and physically, and outlines a brief history of the architecture, while also touching on the role of English Heritage and The Theatres Trust in theatre conservation. The striking photographs lead the reader on a wide-ranging tour starting at the entrance and exiting by the stage door, and taking in the front-of-house areas, the auditoria and the backstage spaces of some of London's most famous theatres. From the London Palladium to the Savoy Theatre, it offers glimpses of those areas not normally seen by the public, such as rehearsal spaces, dressing rooms and backstage areas. In doing so, this book enters the private realms of the theatre technicians and actors, and brings to light the theatre's hidden world. A must for all theatre lovers!