Photos of the West End of London

London Theater: Page to Stage

October 25–30, 2027

Pricing: $7,895 per person; For a single room add $1,830

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For more information, contact ATA at 855-395-6100 or CHQtravels@academic-travel.com

Overview

Join Chautauqua Travels for an immersive journey into the heart of London’s theater scene. Unravel the mysteries of storied theaters and delve into the play development and writing processes. You will have the opportunity to go backstage literally and figuratively as you meet with theater professionals who all have a hand in making sure that the show goes on. As you learn about some of the building blocks that go into producing theater, each day will be punctuated by captivating performances on some of London’s most iconic stages.

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Questions?

Please contact ATA at:
Toll-Free Number: 855-395-6100
CHQtravels@academic-travel.com

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Trip Highlights

  • Attend five thoughtfully curated performances on some of London’s most distinguished and influential stages.
  • Gain insider perspectives on London’s theatrical history, enriched by expert storytelling and context.
  • Go behind the scenes at the National Theatre and Shakespeare’s Globe, uncovering the workings of two iconic institutions.
  • Engage in conversation with a member of a theater’s literary or artistic staff for an in‑depth look at playwriting and the development of new work.
  • Participate in formal discussions and informal exchanges with fellow travelers and tour staff, deepening your appreciation of each production.

Trip Expert: Jade King Carroll 

Jade King Carroll is Producing Artistic Director of the Chautauqua Theater Company. She is a distinguished director specializing in new play development, with extensive collaborations with acclaimed playwrights like Dael Orlandersmith, Chisa Hutchinson, and more. She has fostered emerging writers at prestigious organizations such as the Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center, Williamstown Theatre Festival, and more. Carroll’s directorial portfolio includes new audio dramas for Audible, Marvel, and more. As the Artistic Associate at Second Stage Theatre, she worked on world premieres by prominent playwrights and managed 2ST’s education department. Carroll’s expertise extends to directing classical productions, having directed over 50 productions nationwide at renowned venues including Primary Stages, Shakespeare Theatre DC, and others. Her commitment to expanding the cultural canon is evident through her numerous directing and teaching roles at institutions like Juilliard, Princeton, and NYU. Carroll’s accolades include the Paul Green Award, a 40 Under 40 award from SUNY New Paltz, and the 2020 Drama League Award, highlighting her significant contributions to the theatrical arts.

Jade King Carroll

Itinerary

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 1

Act I

Arrive in London on individual flights and transfer independently to your hotel in Bloomsbury, a neighborhood long associated with writers, thinkers, and the stage. This afternoon, gather with fellow travelers and your tour staff for a quintessentially English afternoon tea and welcome reception, setting the tone for the days ahead. As evening falls, stroll to the West End for your first theatrical experience—a performance* thoughtfully selected by your Chautauqua expert.

Included Meal: Tea

Accommodations: The Bloomsbury Hotel

*The performance schedule and theaters will be determined in Summer 2027 when the production schedules have been announced.

Day 2

The Inside Scoop

Set out on foot with your Travel Director for a guided walk through the heart of London’s Theatreland, enlivened by insider stories, legendary names, and behind-the-scenes history. Enjoy time at leisure for lunch amid the energy of Covent Garden before traveling by coach to the South Bank for an exclusive backstage tour of the National Theatre. This evening, enjoy a group pre‑show dinner followed by a performance* on one of the National’s celebrated stages.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodations: The Bloomsbury Hotel

*The performance schedule and theaters will be determined in Summer 2027 when the production schedules have been announced.

Day 3

The Development Process

This morning, gather with your Chautauqua expert for an engaging discussion on new plays and the selection process, offering insight into how contemporary theatre is curated and championed. Continue the conversation over lunch at a local restaurant before attending a matinee performance at a theater known for innovative new work*. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure—or, for the truly devoted, make it a two‑show day.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodations: The Bloomsbury Hotel

*The performance schedule and theaters will be determined in Summer 2027 when the production schedules have been announced.

Day 4

The Design Process

Meet with your Chautauqua expert this morning to explore the collaborative relationship between directors, designers, and performers. Cross the Thames for lunch at lively Borough Market, then step into theatrical history with a behind‑the‑scenes guided visit to Shakespeare’s Globe, including a special talk on Shakespearean costume or text. Return to the West End for an evening performance* that brings design and storytelling together on stage.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodations: The Bloomsbury Hotel

*The performance schedule and theaters will be determined in Summer 2027 when the production schedules have been announced.

Day 5

The Writing Process

Enjoy a morning at leisure before heading to one of London’s theaters renowned for new play development. Meet with a member of the literary or artistic staff for an insider’s perspective on the writing, workshop, and dramaturgical process. This evening, celebrate your immersive journey with a festive farewell dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a final performance*.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodations: The Bloomsbury Hotel

*The performance schedule and theaters will be determined in Summer 2027 when the production schedules have been announced.

Day 6

The Epilogue

Depart at leisure for independent transfers to Heathrow Airport—or remain in London to continue exploring its extraordinary theater scene.

Included Meal: Breakfast

What’s Included?

  • All accommodations for the duration of the tour
  • Meals, as noted in the itinerary
  • All sightseeing and visits as noted in the itinerary
  • Tickets to five performances
  • Expertise of a Chautauqua expert, ATA-hired travel director, and local guides throughout the tour
  • All gratuities for on-tour guides, drivers, hotel, and restaurant staff as part of the group program
  • All on-tour transportation, unless otherwise noted
  • Quietvox listening devices to facilitate audibility and social distancing on tour
  • The assistance of an ATA professional travel team to assist with pre-trip questions, travel arrangements, including flights, extra hotel nights and other services
  • Comprehensive pre-departure mailings and materials with information about the destination and what to expect on tour, including a suggested reading list
  • Emergency evacuation insurance

Accommodations

The Bloomsbury Hotel, London
This elite hotel lies in the heart of upmarket Bloomsbury, housed in an Edwin Lutyens designed, neo-Georgian building. The interior is artfully designed with a combination of historical pieces, elaborate wallpaper, Art Deco embellishments and colorful decadence. The 153 rooms and suites range in style from classic, crème color schemes and neo-gothic woodwork, to modern twenties touches and velvet chairs. All rooms include luxury bedding, fluffy bathrobes, slippers, as well as Malin & Goetz toiletries. Multiple dining options are available, including a chic 1920s styled cocktail bar, and a refined restaurant serving traditional British fare and afternoon tea. Hotel amenities include a large library, a 24-hour gym, and a beautiful central courtyard. Tottenham Court Road tube station is seconds from the hotel, with many attractions within minutes, like Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, and Seven Dials market. (5 Nights)