Grand Theatre, Woolwich
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Grand Theatre, Woolwich
Promotional postcard showing the facade of the Grand Theatre Woolwich. Considering the size of its employed population and the substantial army presence, Woolwich was surprisingly late in acquiring a large theatre to rival the ageing Royal and the quasi-theatrical concert room (later reconstructed as a theatre) in the Royal Artillery barracks. There was a proposal, before the turn of the century, for a Grand Theatre in Moorish style in Beresford Square by Frank Matcham, but this was never built. Crewes Grand Theatre and Opera House, opened by Sir Henry Irving in 1900, was a little apart from the busiest area of town, on a site adjoining the Town Hall. It presented drama, musical comedy, opera and, later, variety. Taken over by ABC in 1935, it was closed in 1939 and demolished for the building of a new cinema, but this was not completed (as the Regal) until 1955. Although construction commenced, war prevented the W R Glen designed ABC from being completed. As a shell, it was requisitioned for storage. In 1955, it was completed to re-designed plans of C J Foster. Closed in 1982, it was purchased by the Borough of Greenwich who planned to re-open it as a live theatre. However, it was eventually leased and opened as a nightclub in 1985. Nightclub use ceased due to loss of licence, and in 2010 the building was sold to a church group. The church backed out, however, and in June 2011 the building was sold to a community group who re-opening the building as a cinema, theatre and music venue. In 2014 planning permission was granted for the theatres demolition and redevelopment. The theatre closed on 10 April 2015. Date: circa 1900
Media ID 14250727
© The Michael Diamond Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.