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Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller in Frankenstein (National Theatre Live)
Photograph: Catherine AshmoreBenedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller in Frankenstein

The best theatre to watch online right now

Stream these amazing plays, musicals and dance shows at home – because right now, your couch is the best seat in the house

Written by
Time Out editors
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Many thousands of theatres across the globe lie empty, devoid of performers, audience, artistry and applause. The worldwide shutdown has hit actors, dancers and other performing artists hard, and shut spectators away in isolation. Luckily, the internet has opened up a lifeline, allowing performing arts institutions to keep the lights on – virtually, at least. From New York’s Broadway and London’s West End to the vibrant Australian theatre scene and beyond, digital stages have been opening their archives and broadcasting legendary past performances featuring star actors, boundary-pushing directors and incredible sets and costumes. And although you can’t be there in person, these online streaming theatre, dance and opera shows have some advantages over the IRL theatre experience: you’ll always get the best view in the house, and it’s often for free.

Like you, we can’t wait to get back out there and support the theatre in person. But for now, here are the best ways to bring the experience home.

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The best theatre shows streaming now

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Stream fringe theatre from around the world
Photograph: Scenesaver

Stream fringe theatre from around the world

It’s not just major institutions that are making their catalogues available online to theatrophiles. A whole host of smaller venues and companies have uploaded videos to Scenesaver, a new pay-what-you-wish streaming website giving independent, fringe theatre a presence during lockdown. The productions are mostly from the UK but also include shows from Ireland, the USA and even Namibia.

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Also streaming: concerts by top musical artists

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