New Theatre Royal has been presented with a green plaque in recognition of the theatre’s importance to the city’s cultural heritage.
The Grade II* listed building, designed by British Victorian theatre architect Frank Matcham, is one of the few working Matcham theatres in the country.
The plaque was presented by The Frank Matcham Society during their behind the scenes tour of the theatre’s new £4.5m refurbishment project.
Known for setting new sightline standards as well as his exuberant interiors, Matcham was commissioned in 1900 to enlarge the auditorium and improve the stage facilities at New Theatre Royal. Many of his design features have been retained at the theatre including the pioneering steel cantilevers that allowed balconies to be built out into the theatre without the use of pillars to create a more intimate setting for audiences and performers.
Diana Walkden, long-term member of The Frank Matcham Society, commented: “It has been wonderful to see New Theatre Royal brought back to life and we were delighted that many of its historic details have been rescued. With the expansion of the backstage area and the new technical capabilities we are sure it will make an excellent venue.”