Garrison Theatre facts for kids

The Garrison Theatre is a cool place in Lerwick, Shetland, Scotland. It's a theatre that can hold 280 people. It has a special stage called a proscenium stage, which means it has an arch around the front. The stage also has a "sprung" floor, which is a bit bouncy, making it great for dancers! The seats are set up in rows that go upwards, like steps, so everyone can see the stage. There are 19 rows, from A to S, with different numbers of seats in each.

This theatre is a busy spot! It hosts all sorts of shows like dance, plays, funny stand-up comedy, and music concerts. You might even see a pantomime there, which is a fun, musical play often performed around holidays. A group called the Isleburgh Drama Group, which has won awards, often puts on plays here. Before a new cinema called Mareel opened in 2012, the Garrison Theatre also showed movies.

A Look at the Garrison Theatre

The Garrison Theatre is a special place where many different shows happen. It's designed so that everyone in the audience can have a great view of the stage.

What Happens at the Theatre?

• Dance shows: See amazing dancers perform.
• Drama productions: Watch exciting plays and stories come to life.
• Comedy nights: Laugh along with stand-up comedians.
• Music concerts: Enjoy live music from different artists.
• Pantomimes: Experience fun, interactive plays, especially popular during the festive season.

The Theatre's History

The Garrison Theatre has a long and interesting past. It first opened way back in 1903.

Early Days and Wars

When it first opened, the building was used as a drill hall. This was a place where soldiers practiced their drills and exercises. It was also a gymnasium, a place for physical training. During the First World War (1914-1918), it was the main office for a group of soldiers called the 7th Volunteer Battalion Gordon Highlanders.

Later, during the Second World War (1939-1945), the building was changed into a theatre. This was done by a group called the Entertainments National Service Association (ENSA). Their job was to entertain the soldiers and keep their spirits up during the war.

After the Wars

In the 1950s and 1960s, the theatre was owned by the Zetland County Council (now called the Shetland Islands Council). They decided to fix up and improve the theatre in 1989. The Isleburgh Drama Group and an Entertainments Committee helped plan the shows.

After that, the theatre was looked after by the Islesburgh Trust. Then, in April 2007, it came under the management of Shetland Arts, which helps promote arts and culture in Shetland. In 2017, a group called the Friends of the Garrison was started. They work to make sure the theatre stays an important part of the community.

Famous Visitors to the Garrison Theatre

Many famous people have performed at the Garrison Theatre over the years.

Stars from the Past

• George Formby and Gracie Fields: These two very famous entertainers visited Shetland and performed at the theatre in 1943, during the Second World War.
• Elvis Costello: A well-known musician, he performed here in 1988.
• Billy Connolly: The famous Scottish comedian, also known as "The Big Yin," made people laugh at the theatre in 1994.
• Dylan Moran: This popular comedian performed his stand-up show in 2008.

Behind the Scenes

The Garrison Theatre has everything needed to put on a great show.

Stage and Lighting

The stage is quite big! It is about 23 feet and 5 inches wide, and 18 feet and 2 inches deep. Above the stage, there are four special bars for hanging lights. There's also one lighting bar in the audience area, plus more lights on the sides. These lights help make the shows look amazing!

Backstage Areas

When you enter the theatre, you'll find the box office where you can buy tickets. Backstage, there are two large dressing rooms where performers can get ready. There's also a kitchen and showers. Plus, there's a prop room for all the items used in plays, and a workshop where sets and props can be built or repaired.

See also

In Spanish: Teatro Garrison para niños