Step inside Britain’s oldest working theatre in its original form on Saturday 12 September with a free family guided tour as part of Heritage Open Days.
The Georgian Theatre Royal is offering free family guided tours on Saturday 12 September at 10am, 11am and 12noon as part of Richmond’s Heritage Open Days festival, giving visitors the chance to step inside one of the town’s most fascinating historic buildings and discover the stories of the people who have brought it to life over more than 230 years.
Heritage Open Days takes place from 11 to 20 September, with a packed programme of free events celebrating the people, places and stories that have shaped Richmond and the surrounding area. This year’s national theme, Everyday Histories, shines a spotlight on the lives of ordinary people and the contribution they have made to their communities.
The Georgian Theatre Royal is the perfect place to explore this theme. Built in 1788 by actor manager Samuel Butler, it is Britain’s oldest working theatre in its original form. Its history has been shaped not only by famous performers, but by generations of actors, musicians, backstage workers, audiences and local people.
During the special family guided tours, visitors can step inside the historic playhouse and discover what life was like for Georgian theatre-goers and performers. The tours explore the Theatre’s fascinating history, including the lives of Georgian actors and the evolution of the building as a working theatre.
The Heritage Open Days tours offer a wonderful opportunity for families to experience this unique building and uncover some of the lesser-known stories behind the Theatre. Whether you are a regular visitor or have never stepped through its doors before, there is always something new to discover.
The Georgian Theatre Royal runs regular guided tours from mid-February through to the end of October, giving visitors throughout the main visitor season the opportunity to explore the Theatre and its history. The Heritage Open Days tours on 12 September provide a special chance to experience the Theatre free of charge as part of this nationwide celebration of heritage.
For full details of the Heritage Open Days programme, visit www.richmondcivicsociety.org. or pick up a leaflet in the Theatre's box office or other information points around the town.
For information about the Georgian Theatre Royal and its regular guided tours, visit the www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk.