London Theatres (New Edition) by Michael Coveney is a beautiful book that highlights many of the great theatres of London.

As someone from a long way away, the USA, this is a wonderful way to experience to at least some degree the beauty of these structures. Only one of my trips to London included going to the theatre and the one I went to is not included, so this book is a lot less expensive (though admittedly less fun) than making enough trips to visit each one.

I think what I most enjoyed, even more than the pictures, was the descriptions and history of each. Coupled with the images each theatre becomes a very real place for the reader. Speaking of the photographs, I thought there was a wonderful mix of the broad views (from the stage or from the back toward the stage) with details. Those pictures of the smaller details are the things that can often be missed even by a frequent theatregoer.

This book should appeal to both fans of the theatre as well as readers interested in architecture and photography.

Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley. ( )

***This book was reviewed for Quarto Publishing via Netgalley

Coveney’s London Theatres takes you on a photographic tour amongst some of the most beautiful of the theatres gracing London streets. There are eight chapters, showcasing some forty-five theatres. Among them are the Covent Garden Opera House, the Lyceum, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, and the Savoy. There’s a richness of culture and history tucked in these pages. Information is given for each theatre, along with funny stories about plays and actors that have graced the various stages.

Full of gorgeous pictures, and stuffed with all manner of theatre history and trivia, this book is perfect for theatre or photography lovers.

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Full review to come! ( )

Monograph Library - shelved at: 52 - Theatres [initially with Steve]