The Exquisite Kings Theatre in Glasgow
True to its name, Kings Theatre always was and always has been a theatre fit for Royalty. This stunning building was designed by the legendary theatre architect Frank Matcham, and ever since opening in 1904 it has been host to a number of top performers and performances. Today the Kings Theatre in Glasgow is regarded as being one of Scotland’s oldest and most significant theatres. When you visit the theatre at 297 Bath Street, it won’t take long for you to understand why this gorgeous theatre has earned such a good reputation.
The Kings Theatre was opened during a time when the theatre industry was booming. It soon proved to be a popular choice amongst performers and audiences and by the 1930s it was regularly hosting famous performers from the west end on an almost weekly basis. The theatre has also enjoyed a long tradition of annual pantomimes in which no expense was spared and lavish performances included things such as real horses and trained ballet dancers. These annual pantomime performances continue to be a feature of the theatres annual calendar today as they provide hours of entertainment to the children of Glasgow. The pantomime is held during the Christmas season and is rated by many as being the best in the United Kingdom.
While the theatre is enjoys a strong sense of tradition and a long history, it is very much involved with the future of theatre. It is often the venue for productions put on by amateur theatre groups which means that the group is able to receive a better audience than it would at other theatres. In this way it supports up-and-coming actors and directors and the public is able to enjoy an ever-changing assortment of shows. The theatre is currently open throughout the year and it most often hosts musicals, comedies, dramas and, of course, the annual pantomime. While there are plans to refurbish and clean up the establishment, it is unlikely that the owners of the building will allow it to lose any of its old charm. So visit the Kings Theatre and discover what all the fuss is about for yourself.