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Plymouth Theatres
Plymouth, Devon, has a rich theatrical past. Here, we explore the history of the theatres Plymouth has seen come and go, as well as focus on the UKs largest producing regional theatre, the Theatre Royal, Plymouth.
Let's take a tour...
New Palace Theatre
Map Contains Ordnance Survey Data, Crown Copyright and Database Right 2014, sourced from www.mapmoose.com
www.mapmoose.com/maps/Plymouth.jpg
Plymouth theatres: Past and present
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Theatre Royal, Plymouh
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Globe Theatre
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Palace Theatre
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Plymouth Repertory Theatre
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Theatre Royal and Drum Theatre
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The Welcome
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Dock Theatre
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Grand Theatre
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Hoe Theatre
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Barbican Theatre
Theatre Royal, Plymouth
The Theatre Royal, Plymouth as it looked prior to it's recent redevelopment.
Photo: TN and GW
Standing grandly at the bottom of Royal Parade, the current Theatre Royal, Plymouth opened in 1982.
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It is the "largest and best attended regional theatre" (Arts Council England), hosting large scale musicals and plays in it's main space (The Lyric) and new writing and experimental productions in the neighbouring Drum Theatre.
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In addition to touring productions (some of which are close collaborations with the TRP itself), the Drum is also host to the Theatre Royal, Plymouth Young Company's productions, which I am proud to have been a part of during my youth. I have fond memories of working in this wonderfully exciting space towards equally exciting productions.
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Recently, a major renovation of the front of house, theatre and backstage areas paved the way for a third space, "The Lab", devoted to new work by emerging artists and local communities.
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My time within the Young Company was an inspiring and greatly educational experience; a strong grounding for my later education at Drama School in stage management.
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It was in the larger auditorium (recently named 'The Lyric') in which I saw my first production at the age of 5 - an experience which kick started my passion for (and desire to work in) theatre.
Right: A newspaper article discussing the opening of the new Theatre Royal and the nearby Derry's Clock. The clock was erected in 1862 and survived the devastating Blitz, standing proudly next to both the old and new theatre. It is situated at the rear of the current theatre, between stage door and the nearby Bank pub.
Oliver!
1998 - Cameron Mackintosh's lavish production of Lionel Bart's "Oliver" arrived in Plymouth. Having been a fan of the film, the show made a lasting impression on me and I immediately fell in love with the world of theatre and musicals, a love which escalated and formed my career and educational pathway...
1998: 'Oliver' Ticket - Theatre Royal, Plymouth.
Note the old logo at the top, now updated.
A highly treasured ticket.
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Left: The programme and leaflet for the '98 UK tour of 'Oliver'.
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The tour starred Russ Abbot in the role of Fagin and Sonia Swaby as Nancy.
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