For nearly seven decades, generations of performers and audiences have helped make one Middlesbrough stage a cornerstone of the town's cultural life.
Middlesbrough Theatre marked its 69th anniversary on Wednesday (October 21), and will celebrate 70 years since opening next year.
The theatre opened in October 1957 as Middlesbrough Little Theatre, with renowned actor Sir John Gielgud formally opening the venue ahead of its first production, George Bernard Shaw’s Caesar and Cleopatra.
Middlesbrough Little Theatre, 1957 (Image: Middlesbrough Theatre)
The story of the theatre started in the 1920s, when Middlesbrough’s Opera House closed and was converted into the Gaumont cinema.
Determined to keep live theatre in the town, representatives of more than 40 dramatic societies joined forces in 1923, forming the Middlesbrough Little Theatre society in 1930.
They launched a building fund in 1944, and after plans for its first permanent site fell through due to development proposals, it purchased Toft House and its grounds for £5,250 in 1950.
Middlesbrough Theatre (Image: Middlesbrough Theatre)
The theatre’s opening in 1957 was a significant moment not only for Middlesbrough but for the country, as it was among the first new theatres built in England following the Second World War.
Originally known as the Little Theatre, it became Middlesbrough Theatre in the 1990s.
Middlesbrough Theatre, 2020 (Image: Middlesbrough Theatre)
Now, as the venue approaches its platinum anniversary, plans have been unveiled for a special show celebrating the performances, people and community that have shaped its journey.
Middlesbrough Theatre: Curtain Up at 70 will celebrate 70 years of theatre, creativity and community in the town.
Middlesbrough Theatre (Image: Middlesbrough Theatre)
The show will feature guest appearances and performances by local theatre and arts groups, alongside highlights from the venue’s history.
The celebrations will also spotlight a new generation of young performers who could help shape the future of the theatre.
Read more
North East town 'to go again' after City of Culture setback with huge 2030 plans
'Dream come true' as Coronation Street and Brassic stars in Teesside for theatre show
From Teesside to Hogwarts - The town that shaped 'clever and funny' Harry Potter star
Middlesbrough Theatre said: “For almost seven decades, our stage has been home to unforgettable performances, incredible talent and countless memories.
“From spectacular productions to community performances, generations of audiences, performers and theatre lovers have all played a part in making Middlesbrough Theatre the special place it is today.
“Next year, we're celebrating our platinum anniversary in style with a very special show honouring 70 years of theatre, creativity and community in Middlesbrough.”
The 70th anniversary will bring the story full circle, celebrating the local performers and theatre lovers who fought to keep live performance in Middlesbrough.