Theatre Royal, Birmingham facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Theatre Royal |
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The Theatre Royal in 1780
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| Former names | New Street Theatre |
| General information | |
| Type | Theatre |
| Address | New Street |
| Town or city | Birmingham |
| Country | England |
| Opened | 1774 |
| Demolished | 1956 |
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The Theatre Royal was a famous theatre in Birmingham, England. It was located on New Street. When it first opened, it was known as the New Street Theatre. People also sometimes called it the New Theatre. This large building could hold about 2000 people. It was first built in 1774 and stood for many years before being taken down in 1956.
Contents
History of the Theatre Royal
The Theatre Royal had a long and interesting history. It faced some challenges over the years, including fires.
Early Days and Challenges
The theatre first opened its doors in 1774. Sadly, it was damaged by a fire in 1792. This fire was started on purpose. After the fire, the theatre was rebuilt.
It faced another fire in 1820. Again, the building was repaired and rebuilt. This shows how important the theatre was to the people of Birmingham.
Rebuilding and New Designs
In 1897, a new play called The Fortune Hunter by W. S. Gilbert had its very first performance here. This was a big event for the theatre.
The theatre was rebuilt again in 1902. This time, a famous architect named Ernest Runtz designed it. When it reopened in 1904, it was even bigger. It could now hold 2200 people! This version of the building lasted until 1956.
The End of an Era
In 1956, the Theatre Royal closed its doors for good. The building was then taken down. Today, a different building stands on that spot. It is where you can find a branch of Boots and Bella Italia.
Special Features and Famous Visitors
The Theatre Royal was not just a building; it was a place where art and history met.
Surviving Artworks
Two special stone artworks from the front of the theatre still exist today. These are large round medallions made of a material called coade stone. They show the faces of two very famous people: David Garrick and William Shakespeare. You can see these medallions displayed in the Library of Birmingham.
Charles Dickens' Performance
In June 1848, a very famous writer, Charles Dickens, visited the theatre. He brought his Amateur Theatrical Company to perform there. They were raising money to help save William Shakespeare's house in Stratford-upon-Avon. It was a special event to help preserve a piece of history.
