The Barbican Center is a performing arts center that hosts classical and contemporary concerts, movie screenings, art exhibitions and theater performances. One of the largest venues of its kind in Europe, the Barbican Center features several theaters, movie theaters, restaurants, conference and trade halls, a conservatory and a library.
Each year, the Barbican Center holds thousands of events and receives approximately 1.5 million visitors. With such a diverse schedule of performances and events, the Barbican Center is suitable for everyone from families with young children to avid cultural enthusiasts to movie aficionados to industry professionals.
Barbican Center in London - one of the highlights of 10 Best Theaters in London (Read all about London here)
photo by Chris McKenna (CC BY-SA 4.0) modified
Highlights of the Barbican Center
The Barbican Centre’s performance halls are one of its biggest draws. It features the massive Barbican Hall that hosts the London Symphony Orchestra and the BBC Symphony Orchestra and the Barbican Theater for the Royal Shakespeare Company. There’s also the Pit, a 200-seat theater that hosts a variety of shows and performances.
Other facilities in the Barbican Center include the Barbican Movie, a space with 3 movie theaters for movie screenings, and the Barbican Library, a public library with collections on the arts. You’ll also find 3 restaurants, 2 trade exhibition halls and 7 conference halls for industry events.
photo by Chris McKenna (CC BY-SA 4.0) modified
Good to know when visiting the Barbican Center
The Barbican Center hosts numerous events and performances throughout the year, so be sure to check the calendar for your trip to see what’s on. You can book tickets to the events online, by phone or in person to prepare for your visit. You could also book tours of the Barbican Center to learn about its history and see the entire complex.
Even if you don’t attend a performance, the Barbican Center offers free events like art exhibits, art installations, industry Q&A sessions and more. You can experience unique events, such as an introspective on democracy using a game of ‘Pong’.
Barbican Center in London
Location: Silk St, Barbican, London EC2Y 8DS, UK
Phone: +44 (0)2076 384141
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