The Shaftesbury Theatre, the largest independent theatre in London's West End, has announced it will be renamed the Judi Dench Theatre in honour of Dame Judi Dench. Scheduled to take place in February 2027, the historic renaming celebrates Dame Judi’s unparalleled contribution to British theatre and the performing arts, ensuring her extraordinary legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Dame Judi’s connection to the venue is deeply rooted. She was a founding member of the Theatre of Comedy, a collective of actors and authors whose work helped secure the survival of the theatre during the 1980s and early 1990s. Furthermore, her starring role in the long-running television series As Time Goes By cemented her lifelong relationship with the Taffner family, owners of the theatre through DLT Entertainment.
"The Shaftesbury Theatre has always held a special place in my heart," Dame Judi said. "To have this beautiful theatre renamed after me is truly overwhelming. Live theatre continues to be so important as a way of telling stories and entertaining audiences, something I have aimed to do all my working life."
The announcement coincides with a major, multi-phase renovation of the Grade II listed building, which was originally built in 1911 as the New Prince’s Theatre. The upcoming refurbishment will include the meticulous restoration of the auditorium's unique opening dome—featuring a specially commissioned painting inspired by the original design—alongside backstage improvements, redecoration, and new carpeting. The theatre will remain open on two levels while the work is carried out.
The venue has a rich history of hosting diverse programming, mirroring Dench's own versatile career spanning Shakespeare, comedy, and musicals. Recent hit productions include & Juliet, Mrs Doubtfire, and Just For One Day – The Live Aid Musical, with the current run of Avenue Q booking until January 3, 2027.
Chief Executive Eleanor Lang expressed immense pride in the decision, noting, "We don’t celebrate brilliant women enough in our West End theatre names, so we are delighted that her name will be forever in lights above our doorway."
