One noticeable difference, however, is the terminology used to identify each level of seating. Listed below are the various terms seen on Broadway versus the West End:
Depending on the theatre, the grand circle and above is only accessible through a separate staircase, and thus a different entrance. So, unlike on Broadway where everyone lines up to enter at the main entrance, West End theatres have various signs to let attendees know where to line up (or where to "form the queue," as the Brits say), depending on their seat location. Standing seats, which do occur on Broadway, are offered more frequently here as well.
General theatre culture is also slightly different. When sitting in the grand circle or higher, most performances offer binoculars to use for £1, which is a feature I had never seen before back in the U.S. Another fun aspect of London theatre is interval ice cream! During the interval (what the U.S. calls intermission), it is tradition to buy small cups of ice cream for a few pounds. While I have yet to buy any myself, it has been highly recommended to me and I will definitely be trying one soon!
