A talk by Mike Gardner, former drama lecturer and director of the Hallam Players pantomimes.

Nearly 250 years ago Sheffield’s first purpose-built theatre, ‘The Theatre’, opened on Norfolk Street.  Mike Gardner tells the story of its early years describing the highs and lows (there were plenty of lows!), the plays and the players and the struggle by various managers to keep the theatre alive in the face of local apathy and, at times, downright hostility. It is a fascinating story of an attempt to provide ‘a bit of culture’ in this fast growing town.

Entry is £5 (or £3 for students), including tea & coffee.  Pay on the door.  Open to all, members & non-members.