Leeds Grand Theatre
Creative Tourist
Built in 1878, the Leeds Grand Theatre is a Grade II listed building which seats about 1,500 people. There is a heavy continental influence in the design of the building, with gothic, ecclesiastical spires. The exterior of the building fuses Romanesque and Scottish baronial styles, while the interior sees more typically medieval motifs such as fan-vaulting and clustered columns.
Following a major refurbishment in 2005, it opened a year later with a completely new stalls area, a larger orchestra pit and huge improvements to the technical specifications of the venue, making it one of the leading theatres in the North of England. A state-of-the-art automated flying system was introduced meaning the theatre is able to host larger musicals and plays.
Currently, Leeds Grand Theatre hosts touring productions of West End and Broadway musicals and plays, as well as stand-up comedy and live music shows. It’s the home to Opera North and regularly showcases events by Northern Ballet. Recent productions have included major musicals and plays such as The Phantom Of The Opera, Dirty Dancing, Shrek The Musical, Oliver, We Will Rock You and Wicked.
Due to its storied history and stunning architecture, guided tours of this fascinating building are available on request. If you’re visiting Leeds for a long weekend, or evening just popping over for evening, a visit to Leeds Grand Theatre is a must, for fans of musicals, beautiful buildings and UK history alike.
