The amazing architecture of a theatre is that rare thing on which everybody agrees: it is awe-inspiring. A timeless triumph which evokes emotion and admiration, and provides the perfect setting for which it was created. One would think that such a building is hard to find, and yet in Yorkshire alone, there are many magnificent theatres, each with their own identity whilst all sharing the same magical feel. We visited eight inspiring theatres in and around Leeds and York to discover their rich heritage, their vital future, and what they’ve got on stage this theatre season.
Leeds Playhouse, Leeds
At the bottom of Leeds city centre is a vitally important building for the city’s artistic culture. From the outside, Leeds Playhouse is no obvious amphitheatre, not shrouded in a century of history, but inside the attractively renovated exterior is fifty years of stagecraft oozing out. In two superb theatres – Quarry, a comfy and atmospheric 300 seater, and Courtyard, a more intimate hundred seater full of DIY charm – are an array of events, from musical shows and comedy gigs to creative engagement, education and inspiration. The seasonal spectacular this year are Stick Man and Charlie and the Chocolate, sure to entertain all ages.
Grand Theatre, Leeds
‘The grand old lady of Leeds’ has been entertaining the city since this ornate building was completed in 1878. The striking site is grand indeed, displaying its Victorian finery and evoking the very essence of theatre across its stalls and circles. Whilst preserving its past, the Grand is also a modern magnificence, bringing to its stage popular performances of eclectic experiences. This winter alone runs the whole gamut, hosting several comedians including Kevin Bridges and Joanne McNally, a hit production of Les Miserables, and from the city’s exceptional music and dance organisations, Northern Ballet’s presentation of Nutcracker and Opera North’s Tosca.
City Varieties Music Hall, Leeds
As the UK’s longest running music hall, the performers who have trodden the stage at Leeds City Varieties are a thing to behold: Charlie Chaplin; Houdini; Russell Crowe… Its humble origins as a room above a pub in 1865 belies its music hall wonder which can be felt within and throughout the beautiful traditional theatre. It is a space which impresses even before the performer entertains, although the listings make sure that this old house has the best current acts on its stage. A favourite venue for many comedians, with Paul Chowdhry and Fern Brady two of those visiting early next year, whilst December is dominated by Leeds’ favourite festive rock n roll panto, this time giving Dick Whittington the rnr treatment.
York Theatre Royal, York
For over 275 years York’s first theatre has been entertaining the city at this superb central site by the Minster. Having evolved through the centuries, York Theatre Royal remains rooted in historic character and theatrical traditions, whilst reconfiguring for modern comfort and culture. The 750 seated theatre changed from a proscenium to offer productions in the round a decade ago, and retains its glorious sweeping views from stalls, circles, balcony and box. They put on their own productions here alongside touring shows; this December sees runs of Ghost Stories for Christmas and Peter Pan, and you can start the new year by taking a theatre tour and tea.
Grand Opera House, York
The building in which the Grand Opera House lives was originally a warehouse and a corn exchange. These 1868 origins seem unfathomable now when wrapped in the ornate interior of a space that embodies every characteristic of a traditional theatre. Since transforming in 1902, Grand Opera House has ever since been a place for plays, musicals, music, comedy, ballet, and of course, opera. As its name implies, the sound is spectacular as is the aesthetics, which are draped in red curtains and sumptuous velvet. Now the county’s largest fully operational theatre, its festive listings is dominated by York’s favourite fun production performing pantomime The Adventure of Old Granny Goose,
Alhambra Theatre, Bradford
Bradford has a number of cultural attractions within its centre, including this beautiful theatre which continues to bring great shows to the city. The Alhambra is over a hundred years old, built in 1913 and named after a Spanish palace in Granada; the West Yorkshire version has since become a Grade II listed building and a distinctive sprawling sight in the city’s skyline. Inside the striking exterior is a 1400 capacity theatre and a smaller studio. The main auditorium is a magnificent theatrical spectacle, only matched by the shows which visit its stage; this Christmas and New Year it’s a giant production for over a month of Jack and The Beanstalk for all the family.
Harrogate Theatre, Harrogate
In the attractive spa town of Harrogate in North Yorkshire, Harrogate Theatre matches its exquisitely maintained surroundings. This Grade II listed Victorian venue was built in 1900 and retains the character of that time. As well as stepping back into the beautiful period features of the charming exterior and lavish interior, Harrogate Theatre also attracts current customers by putting on an array of performances. For almost 2 months this winter, they’ll take visitors to the 500 seats across 3 floors on a magic carpet ride over the sparkling pantomime Aladdin.
Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough
The Stephen Joseph Theatre is one of the first things you’ll see when entering the east coast town of Scarborough by train, and yet its presence still surprises. Amongst the seaside charms and tourist attractions, this is a bold and relevant cultural theatre which inspires and entertains. Britain’s first theatre in the round was created by Stephen Joseph in 1955 in a tiny library space, before moving to its permanent position founded by Artistic Director Alan Ayckbourn in 1988. There is live theatre, music, talks and events, and they join in the Christmas spirit with a Sammy the Shoemakers Impossible Day for kids and cinema screenings of various festive films for all.
