Playhouse (Dewsbury)

• Theatre ID
  2464
• Built / Converted
  1931
• Dates of use
  • 1931 - 1970
• Current state
  Extant
• Current use
  disused
• Address
  Crackenedge Lane, Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, England

Details

A vast cinema, seating 1850, situated in a side road of the town centre. Designed by Robert Cromie, the Playhouse had a large stage and featured quite extensive professional use until closure in 1970. Latterly this was mainly pop concerts, but initially many variety stars did odd nights or full weeks here. The wide façe is in three major bays, the centre one over the small entrance canopy, and, above this, a blind, fluted attic. The outer bays have tall narrow windows lighting the stairs. Above the stairs windows are masks looking rather like a combination of comedy/tragedy and lions! The side elevation is bland. Stage access and dressing rooms are at the rear of the building in a minor road and, because of the slope of the land, are at a high level, maybe second floor. The auditorium, on two levels, is sparsely ornamented. The ceiling contains grilles and the rectangular proscenium is stepped down in four ribbed stages. On either side of the ante proscenium is a rectangular recessed niche, probably originally containing modelled figures. After many years of bingo the Playhouse is now boarded up and unused although it appears secure and in good condition.

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• Other names
  ABC
• Events
  • 1931 - 1970 Use:
  • 1931 Design/Construction:
    • Robert Cromie - Architect
• Capacities
  • Original: 1850
  • Later: 1966: 1750
• Listings
  • Grade Not listed
• Stage type
  • Proscenium flat