RICHMOND THEATRE CELEBRATES
125TH BIRTHDAY IN 2024 – INITIAL CELEBRATIONS ANNOUNCED
2024 marks a momentous year for Richmond Theatre in West London, as the Grade-II listed venue celebrates its 125th birthday. With further plans to be revealed, the theatre – who scooped three awards at the 2023 Richmond Business Awards – are delighted to announce the first of its celebrations.
First opening on 18 September 1899 with a performance of Shakespeare’s As You Like It, Richmond Theatre was designed by famed theatre architect Frank Matcham. Matcham designed a variety of iconic theatres across the UK, including The London Palladium, Hackney Empire and Bristol Hippodrome. At 125, Richmond is one of the oldest surviving examples of his work. Known as the Theatre Royal and Opera House until 1972, the venue underwent a significant refurbishment in the 1990s transforming into the building as we know it today. Over the last few years, Richmond Theatre has become known for being the home of high quality pre-West End drama, allowing audiences to see highly anticipated new shows before they hit the West End. In 2023 alone it saw three high-profile transfers with A Little Life, Vanya, and The Enfield Haunting.
Theatre Director, Allie Long, says: “I am incredibly proud to be a part of this momentous 125th Birthday year as the Theatre Director for Richmond Theatre. As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, I am thrilled for audiences to enjoy an exhilarating lineup of programming and events for 2024 that promises to captivate, inspire, and entertain. For the community and audiences of Richmond, we embark on a journey filled with unforgettable performances, opportunity to form affirming memories in our glorious venue, and continue the enduring magic of live theatre. Here’s to an extraordinary year ahead, celebrating the rich history and vibrant future of Richmond Theatre”.
All at Richmond Theatre are keen to make 2024 a celebratory year, and to begin have announced a selection of limited-edition merchandise to commemorate the theatre. Audience members will now be able to purchase tote bags, magnets, enamel pin badges, mugs and keyrings when they visit the venue. Prices start from just £3.50.
Additionally, the venue are delighted to announce the return of seat sponsorship especially for the 125th year. Prices are £150 for 1 year or, if purchased during the birthday year, £125 for 5 years. Those who would like to become a part of the venue’s history can find out more and purchase their seat dedication here.
Richmond Theatre will also be hosting a free open day for the community, with a date to be announced later in the year. Suitable for all ages, the day will allow visitors to feel like a star as they not only get to stand centre stage but peek behind the scenes. The event will include performances and technical workshops, an arts and crafts zone plus further opportunities to find out more about the history of the venue and what’s coming up for the rest of the year and beyond.
For those interested in performing at the Open Day, Richmond Theatre’s regular acting class Class Act will be hosting rehearsal sessions – participants can book spaces here.
For those who just can’t wait that long, have a read of the venue’s local history articles. The theatre will also be continuing to host monthly backstage guided tours, lead by an expert tour guide. For more information and to book tickets, see here.