Skip to main content

The Theatre Royal (Stockport) (1869 - 1958)

 Organisation

Dates

  • Existence: 1868 - 1958

Biography

The Theatre Royal, was located in St Petersgate Stockport, Cheshire. The building was originally home to a Temperance Hall and later turned into a music hall by Edward Lyons and Mr. Seddon. In 1869 the building was acquired by William John Revill, who converted it into a variety theatre called the People's Opera House.

The People's Opera House was operated until 25 August 1887 when it was destroyed by a devastating fire. The remnants of the building were demolished the following year to make way for a new theatre of variety designed by renowned architect Frank Matcham. The Theatre opened as the Theatre Royal on 4 June 1888. For over 70 years the theatre presented a programme of variety shows, moving pictures, pantomimes, musicals and plays. The Theatre Royal closed in 1958 suffering from the endemic decline of the theatre sector due to the advent of television and the popularity of cinemas that followed the Second World War. Three years later it was sold already in a state of semi ruin after being destroyed by fire once again in 1960. The building was demolished soon after, leaving only the historic façade standing until 1968 when it was also demolished.

Found in 1 Collection or Record:

Handby Celeine Collection

 Collection
Reference code: NFA0107
Scope and Contents

Posters, photographs, programmes, 1 piece of sheet music for six instruments and a small amount of business records and correspondence relating to the dancing and burlesque comedy on skates.

Dates: c1920 - 1945; 2020