Alexandra Park and Palace Charitable Trust (APPCT) has announced the opening programme for its Theatre following an extensive, multimillion pound restoration. It will host a special performance from the BBC Concert Orchestra for the Proms on 1 September before closing to complete the project and will officially re-open on 1 December 2018.
The ambitious project is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bring this historically significant theatre back to life. The project would not have been possible without funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Haringey Council. The £18.8 million National Lottery grant is one of the biggest ever for a heritage project.
Opened in 1875 with a string of spectacular productions, the Theatre went on to be used as a chapel, cinema and later a BBC prop store and workshop. It has not been used for regular performances for over 80 years.
As the restoration reaches completion, the Theatre will welcome the BBC Proms for a “Proms at…” event (1 September). Jane Glover will conduct the BBC Concert Orchestra for a performance of Gilbert and Sullivan’s one-act operetta Trial by Jury which premiered in 1875, the same year the Theatre opened. Tickets for this event will go on sale in June
December’s opening programme is a nod to the Theatre’s variety and music hall roots, a home for both art and light entertainment, as well as reflecting the importance of family theatre. The Theatre’s opening weekend will see a headline performance from a major act on 1 December (TBA), as well as a Gala on 2 December. The Gala, which will be compered by Adam Hills, will feature a variety bill of music, comedy, circus and surprises with special guest to be announced.
December will also see performances from Dylan Moran, Gareth Malone, an evening of jazz presented by legendary club Ronnie Scott’s and acclaimed artists Gilbert & George in conversation. The BBC’s long-running Friday Night Is Music Night, hosted by Ken Bruce, will also broadcast from the Theatre. Horrible Histories – Horrible Christmas, presented by Birmingham Stage Company and Derby Theatre, will run from 4 December until 30 December. It is the first time this production has been seen in London.
In addition to the support from the HLF and Haringey Council, the project has also attracted support from a number of charitable trusts and foundations, including American Express Foundation, J Paul Getty Jnr Charitable Trust, Garfield Weston Foundation and Heritage of London Trust.
Members of the public have been invited to support the restoration of the Theatre through a public fundraising campaign, enabling them to name a seat in the Theatre. Supporters who have named a seat include Sandi Toksvig, Neil Morrissey and Hugo Speer. All donations of £25 or over will be commemorated on a Donor Board to be installed in the East Court, celebrating the public’s role in this restoration of the People’s Palace. Visit theatre.alexandrapalace.com for more information on how to donate.
The East Court will also re-open in December and will fundamentally transform how the public interacts with the Palace. Open throughout the day, the East Court will welcome everyone from early morning park users to evening concert goers. It will be a place that celebrates the Palace’s origins as “Fun Palace” and place of innovation and wonder by showcasing its rich history through exhibitions, art and utilising new technology like virtual and augmented reality.
The East Court’s new Creative Learning Zone will provide year-round events and activities that engage and inspire groups from the borough and across the city.
Louise Stewart, Chief Executive of APPCT, said: “Reaching this point is a testament to the dedication of the team at the Palace, our partners and our funders. Without them this work would not have been possible. The re-opening of the Theatre and East Court is a major step forward in our mission to bring areas of the Park and Palace back to life and strengthen our audiences’ connection to our unrivalled history. We look forward to welcoming new audiences and supporters and sharing the Palace’s hugely exciting journey.”
Visit theatre.aleaxandrapalace.com for more information.
