Palace Theatre, Redditch

The Palace Theatre is a Grade II listed theatre in Redditch, England. It opened in 1913 and has been primarily used as a theatre, but also as a cinema, rollerskating rink and bingo hall.

Palace Theatre, Redditch
Palace Theatre in 2013, showing the 1971 foyer extension
AddressAlcester Street
Redditch
England
Coordinates52.3055°N 1.9379°W / 52.3055; -1.9379
OwnerRedditch Borough Council
Capacity420
Construction
Opened1913 (1913)
Rebuilt2005
ArchitectWilliam Robert (Bertie) Crewe
Website
redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk

History

The theatre opened in 1913, with a capacity of 660.[1] It was designed by Bertie Crewe with a Neo-classical interior. The theatre was split into a circular balcony with stalls above.[2]

In 1939, the theatre closed at the onset of World War II, but quickly re-opened. It closed in 1954 and was redeveloped as a rollerskating rink, opening the following year. It was used as a dance hall from 1959, and subsequently as a bingo hall. The premises were acquired by Redditch Urban District Council in 1967.[1] The building was later modified.[2]

The premises re-opened exclusively as a theatre on 11 September 1971 by the Secretary of State for the Environment, Peter Walker. An an extension on the south east side housing a new foyer opened the same year, while a former factory at the back of the theatre was converted into a set of dressing rooms in 1976.[1]

Since 1985, the building has been run by Redditch Borough Council.[1] It was Grade II listed in 1996.[2] In 2005, the theatre was restored to its original state.[1] Funds and grants were provided by Redditch Borough Council (£3M), and £920,500 as part of a £4 million scheme from The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).[3] The theatre's original seats have been retained and reupholstered.[2]

Performances

The Palace building was initially used for a variety of uses, including theatre and cinema. In 1930, it became known as the Palace Super Cinema. After re-opened in 1940, focusing again on a mix of cinema and variety.[1] Since 1971 it has been used exclusively as a theatre.[1]

The theatre hosts a programme of touring comedy, drama, plays, and an annual pantomime and since 1971 has been the home base of the Redditch Operatic Society.[4]

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References
  1. "Redditch Theatres". arthurlloyd.co.uk. Retrieved 3 March 2020.
  2. Historic England. "Details from listed building database (1268300)". National Heritage List for England. Retrieved 3 March 2020.
  3. "Palace Theatre". Redditch Borough Council. Archived from the original on 12 June 2009. Retrieved 22 June 2009.
  4. "Redditch Operatic Society; Bringing you the very best in Musical Theatre". Redditch Operatic Society. Retrieved 3 March 2020.
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