Theatres in Leeds
Kristy Stott, Theatre EditorTheatres in Leeds cater to a wide range of productions – from critically acclaimed drama at the Leeds Playhouse to the astounding Leeds based Opera North and Northern Ballet resident at The Grand Theatre.
The city boasts a rich theatrical history, with its first theatre opened in 1878 – supposedly following an off the cuff remark by Prince Albert, who suggested a first class theatre in the city would “promote culture and raise the tone of the people.” Granted, it took twenty years between the comment being made and the theatre being built due to pious fears of theatrical entertainment’s “insidious influence”, but they do say good things come to those who wait.
As well as its grand, established playhouses, Leeds’ local theatre scene also boasts a number of community run, independent venues where you can discover up and coming talents, and watch more avant garde productions. Visit Seven Arts in leafy Chapel Allerton, which hosts a number of pay-as-you-feel shows, for the best of local and regional performing arts, or visit national sensory theatre Interplay for an experience that will literally blow you away.
Housed in historically noteworthy and, in some cases, recently converted buildings, there’s a pleasingly varied programme on offer in our guide to Leeds’ best theatres. Keep reading to discover our favourite picks.
