Theatre
Rave reviews for Birmingham’s theatres are commonplace, and with so many venues the city offers you such a wide choice. Pinter or Panto are both regular friends. The musicals, dramas and farces never stop, with doors opening nightly at a wide network of auditoriums.
Half a million people agree; Birmingham’s flagship theatre is the nation’s favourite too. More seats are sold at the Birmingham Hippodrome than by any other British theatre each year. West End included. Still gleaming from a recent £35 million renovation, this dazzling 2,000-seat work of art regularly welcomes the cream of London’s musicals. And the UK’s biggest, most spectacular pantos (oh yes they do).
It also hosts stunning seasons from the Welsh National Opera. And, of course, it’s the place to be enchanted by the Birmingham Royal Ballet - formed in 1990 when the world famous Sadler’s Well Royal Ballet moved to this wonderful new home.
The Alexandra is an exquisite Edwardian auditorium staging a rich mix of drama, musicals, concerts and comedy. Truly one of the country’s top homes for touring companies.
Birmingham Repertory Theatre aims to provide culture and entertainment for everyone in the West Midlands. It creates entirely new plays, working with the writers, directors and actors to bring many world premieres to light. Every year The REP’s programme includes something specifically for children and families, and also tours several shows that highlight Birmingham as a city of contemporary culture nationwide. A registered charity, The REP also enriches the lives of people across the Midlands through entertainment, education and participation. From 2011 to 2013 The REP Theatre Company is performing at different venues across the city while its building in Centenary Square is refurbished as part of the new joint REP/Library of Birmingham development. The REP will return to the theatre in 2013, when it will also be celebrating its 100th birthday.
The Public in West Bromwich is an exciting creative community, cultural space which showcases a variety of theatrical performances throughout the year from local amateur dramatic groups to touring shows.
Of course, there’s the charming Old Rep, The Crescent, The Drum, The Old Joint Stock Theatre, The Mixing Bowl Theatre, Stan's Café and many others.