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Palace Theatre, Redditch
The Palace Theatre is a Grade II listed theatre in Redditch in Worcestershire, England. It opened in 1913 and has been primarily used as a theatre, but also as a cinema, rollerskating rink and bingo hall. HistoryThe theatre opened in 1913, with a capacity of 660.[1] It was designed by Bertie Crewe with a Neo-classical interior. The theatre was split into a circular balcony with stalls above.[2] In 1939, the theatre closed at the onset of World War II, but quickly re-opened. It closed in 1954 and was redeveloped as a rollerskating rink, opening the following year. It was used as a dance hall from 1959, and subsequently as a bingo hall. The premises were acquired by Redditch Urban District Council in 1967.[1] The building was later modified.[2] The premises re-opened exclusively as a theatre on 11 September 1971 by the Secretary of State for the Environment, Peter Walker. An extension on the south east side housing a new foyer opened the same year, while a former factory at the back of the theatre was converted into a set of dressing rooms in 1976.[1] Since 1985, the building has been run by Redditch Borough Council.[1] It was Grade II listed in 1996.[2] In 2005, the theatre was restored to its original state.[1] Funds and grants were provided by Redditch Borough Council (£3M), and £920,500 as part of a £4 million scheme from The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).[3] The theatre's original seats have been retained and reupholstered.[2] PerformancesThe Palace building was initially used for a variety of uses, including theatre and cinema. In 1930, it became known as the Palace Super Cinema. After re-opened in 1940, focusing again on a mix of cinema and variety.[1] Since 1971 it has been used exclusively as a theatre.[1] The theatre hosts a programme of touring comedy, drama, plays, and an annual pantomime and since 1971 has been the home base of the Redditch Operatic Society.[4] References
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