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Grand Theatre (1898 - 1957) (Luton)

 Organisation

Dates

  • Existence: 1898 - 1957

Biography

The Grand Theatre in Waller Street, Luton, was opened on 10 December 1898. Initially the theatre presented a programme of plays accompanied by its own permanent orchestra. By the early 1900s the theatre added moving pictures to its programme. The Grand Theatre remained opened during World War One and continued presenting live performances and films throughout. After the war film showing overtook live performances and eventually the theatre focused on this side of the business alone until 1930, when the theatre returned to its roots, showing a mixture of theatre and variety.

The theatre first closed in 1949 only to reopen the following year and eventually close permanently in 1957. The Grand Theatre in Luton was demolished in 1959 to make room for a shopping complex.

Found in 3 Collections and/or Records:

Grand Theatre Poster, 30 May 1932

 Item
Reference code: 178R38.6
Scope and Contents

Luton. Rupert Ingalese presents, Dr. Raymond and Company hypnotist, magician and mind reader, The Handby Celeine Troupe of tricks and fancy skaters in thrills on wheels, Eastern Miracles, Musical Astleys, G.S. Young comedian, Peacock & Rees singers. Red and blue type on cream background with red border.

Dates: 30 May 1932

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

Posters, c1920 - 1939

 Series
Reference code: 178R38
Scope and Contents

British theatre posters presenting Handby Celeine acts among others.

Dates: c1920 - 1939

Additional filters:

Type
Archival Object 2
Collection 1
 
Subject
Acrobats 2
Animals 2
Business 1
Circus 1
Clowning 2