The Altrincham Garrick Playhouse
Kristy Stott, Theatre Editor
Established in 1914, Altrincham Garrick Playhouse presents drama, comedy, musicals and pantomime, as well as hosting term-time drama classes and a popular summer school for young people.
With an auditorium seating 400, the Garrick Playhouse hosts approximately 13 mainstream productions per year, alongside visiting amateur productions and special one-night performances from professional theatre companies and performers. Offering productions for all ages, the theatre is well-renowned for its traditional Christmas pantomime – a high-quality show with a pleasing price-tag.
Always supporting community theatre, up-and-coming local writers and emerging contemporary theatre across the north-west, The Garrick is also home to the award-winning 50-seater Lauriston Studio. Following its opening in 2006, this intimate and atmospheric performance space has hosted many cutting edge and thought-provoking productions.
Budding singers, dancers and performers should check out the Garrick Academy of Performing Arts (GAPA) which runs Saturday classes for young people aged 5 to 18. The classes offer young performers the chance to learn more about stagecraft, performance skills and audition preparation, as they work towards putting their own production onto the stage.
Boasting a rich history, the Garrick Playhouse underwent a full refurbishment in 1999 where extensive work was undertaken to the front of the building, auditorium and foyer, with first-class access facilities installed throughout. With a sizeable lobby, box office and a cosy bar area, The Garrick is also home to the PictureHouse, which offers cinema and theatrical screenings on a Friday and Sunday night.
