The Old Repertory Theatre

The following building shall be included: STATION STREET

1. The Old Repertory Theatre 5104 SP0686 NF/SP 0786 NW 3399: C4/99 34/99

II 2.

Theatre. 1912-13 by S.N. Cooke for Sir Barry Jackson, small extension by same architect 1920. Red brick with stone dressings and parapeted roof. Austere classical style. 4 storeys. Ground floor has pair of C20 glazed doors with pillars to sides and outer double original doors to far left and right. Greek key pattern frieze above and projecting glass and iron canopy. Over this is a wide quilloche frieze which acts as a base for 4 tall Ionic pilasters slightly recessed and the outer only half revealed. Betweeen the pilasters are 3 windows with architraves and pediments and 3 small windows above. To either side brick walling with 2 small windows. The whole front supports an entablature with 4 wreaths in frieze and dentilled cornice. Further storey over has 2 panels to sides and chinese fretwork ballustrade in centre with polygonal extension set behind. Rear facing Hinckley Street has tall fly tower with 3 blank arches and 3-window range of 16-pane horned sashes on 3 upper floors. Various doors, double doors and windows below. Interior: foyer in austere classical style, slightly modified 1960's but retainiong marble-faced piers, framed panels and modillioned cornice. Stairs with marble dado in 2 colours and marble ballustrade top lead to stalls foyer which also has marble dado. Further mouldings and modillion cornice as below. The auditorium has slightly curving balcony, cross-beamed ceiling with plaster enrichments and austere classical proscenium arch. History: the theatre was built at a cost of £17,000 by day and night shifts in 4 months. Jackson used his private fortune to present high quality theatre in austere surroundings. Shaw's 'Back to Methuselah' was premiered here in 1923. Many famous actors and actresses have been members of the company or have appeared at the theatre. It was the first purpose-built repertory theatre in the country.

Listing NGR: SP0699586530