Darren Criss to Bring Rockstar Energy to the Royal Albert Hall

If there’s any further proof that GQ Philippines cover star Darren Criss is one of the most charismatic talents today, look no further than the added matinee slot on his upcoming London show at the Royal Albert Hall on October 18, 2026.

The Tony, Emmy, and Golden Globe winner initially announced a single 7 p.m. show at the iconic venue. But when fans came through and tickets sold out immediately, Criss and his team were quick to add a matinee show at 2 p.m., essentially booking a same-day doubleheader. 

The performance will showcase a journey through his life, revisiting the songs, experiences, and roles that define him as a showman. But unlike the typical performance you’d expect from the “musical theater” dude, Criss wants to keep his audience off-kilter, adding surprises to the set list and the way the songs will be performed. 

Criss told GQ Philippines that he wants to inject the performance with “rockstar” energy, the same type you’d expect from shows at rock venues such as the Troubadour in Los Angeles or the Bowery Ballroom in New York City.

“It’ll be bringing rock and roll to Royal Albert Hall, which Royal Albert Hall is not used to,” Criss says. “My gosh, I’ve watched so many concerts there, so I’m just trying to bring some of that energy to it.” 

First opened in 1871, the Royal Albert Hall has been a famed London institution, known for hosting some of history’s most celebrated performers. Typically known as a more formal venue, Criss will use the grandeur of the stage for something decidedly less conventional. “I’m not doing a more stereotypical person-from-Broadway-jazz-combo set,” he teases. “I like flipping those things on their heads.”

While the time slot for the evening event has since been sold out, tickets for the matinee performance are running out fast. It’s not just an “eclectic playlist of songs” but also a chance for the Broadway darling to share his history, passion, memories, and inspirations, all with his unique brand of humour. However, expect the unexpected. Now, that’s entertainment!

FEATURED IMAGE SHOOT CREDITS:

Photograph by DAVID URBANKE. Styling by JUNGLE LIN. Groomer: AMY KLEWITZ. Producer: DAKOTA GRIFFIN. On-set Producer: REA IOANNOU. Photo Assistance: SEQUOYAH WILDWYN-DECHTER. Digitech: JONATHAN CARMELLI. Set Designer: CHANCEY BRIDGES. Videographer: KEN MARTELL.