A guide to our Auditoriums

Stalls

Historically designed for the masses, and formerly known as the ‘pit’ where audiences would stand. Later, The Grand introduced benches and employed ‘packers’ – staff whose role was to ‘pack’ as many customers into the stalls as humanly possible!

Front Stalls offers you great views, as close to the stage as possible, where you can immerse yourself in the emotions of the show and catch the intricacies of a performer’s facial expressions (although if comedian Al Murray’s on-stage, you might end up the splash zone!).

Those situated in the middle are perhaps the most desirable, premium seats with unparalleled views of all action on the stage – all whilst close enough to feel it!

Further back you are still very much part of the story, though nestled beneath the Dress Circle, it may hinder your view of the auditorium’s grand chandelier and the very highest elements of a performance.

Neither venue has a middle aisle – the only ‘aisle seats’ are end seats, which may provide more of a side view, albeit offer a little extra leg-room.

Pictured: Leeds Grand Theatre

Dress Circle

In the Dress Circle, an elevated position gives you an excellent view of the stage and all the action, whilst treating you to a view of the majesty of the entire venue, as it curves around the auditorium.

Its name dates back to when the richest customers would sit there, in order to show off their finest garments (or ‘fancy dress’) to the audiences below.

These seats are often the most popular and first to sell out – so act quick if you want a spot on the front row!

Beware of pillars at The Grand upholding the Upper Circle, indicated on our seating map, as these can be minor obstructions to your view of the whole stage – but you can grab a bargain if price is a priority.

Pictured: City Varieties Music Hall

Boxes

Boxes were originally a Renaissance-era innovation, designed with comfort, luxury and status in mind. Exclusive and private, they give you closer access to the stage whilst retaining the elevation that grants you a great view. They are positioned at Dress Circle level in both venues, which has its advantages but equally is a slight side-on angle.

Boxes have free-standing chairs, so may be more spacious – granting you flexibility and leg room.

Pictured: City Varieties Music Hall

Upper Circle

Another excellent vantage point of the stage, higher than the Dress, the Upper Circle offers a well-balanced view of all the action – great for musicals, ballets and big numbers. The trade-off is that you are not as close and may miss some intricacies of an actor’s performance.

Also look out for the restricted view seats behind a few pillars dotted around the Upper Circle at The Grand.

At The Varieties, this tier is the highest in the auditorium.

Pictured: Leeds Grand Theatre

Balcony and Upper Balcony

(Leeds Grand Theatre only)

Colloquially known as ‘The Gods’.

Clear and unobstructed views from the higher tiers of the auditorium, where you will have a strong overview of the performance and can soak up the atmosphere for great value, not to mention admire the stunning ceiling and iconic chandelier. Perhaps not best suited to those wary of heights!

Opera aficionados will no doubt already know that these seats are prime position for operatic performances – not only an incredible view of the stage orchestra pit, but also boasting rich, blended sound and crystal clear voices (arguably the best in the building).

Pictured: Leeds Grand Theatre

Restricted View

The ‘i’s indicated on our seating map simply mean information about that seat and could be anything from overhang to side view – it is used to help you make the best choice when booking. To read the message on your computer, hover over the ‘i’. If you are on your phone, press and hold the ‘i’ to read the information.

Though it may seem like these are the spots to avoid, there are some hidden gems here. Our pillars are situated in ways that if you sit just right, you can get a good view – and a bargain! Restricted view seats may be right for you, depending on the show and your own priorities.

Pictured: Leeds Grand Theatre

For any more queries, please refer to our FAQs or contact our Box Office at 0113 243 0808.