Venue Spotlight: Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent
This week, we find out more about the Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent.
We spoke to Victoria Power, Head of Marketing & Communications, who tells us all about the venue's upcoming events, panto season, and their Wedgwood-inspired dome...
See full listings for the Regent Theatre >>
Vital stats
- Regent Theatre, 35-37 Piccadilly, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 1AP
- Established: 1920s
- Capacity: 1,600
Tell us about the venue and your role there?
We can hold just over 1,600 people and my role is Head of Marketing & Communications.
When was the venue first established?
The venue as originally built in the 1920s as a cinema.
Has the venue gone through any major changes since it opened (location, renovation etc)?
Yes – when Ambassador Theatre Group took over the venue in 1999, it went through a major refurbishment, being fully restored to its previously elegant art deco style.
How many events do you host on an average week (including matinees and workshops)?
Normally, a touring show will have around eight performances in the venue per week, plus touch tours for our Access patrons and workshops from our Creative Learning department.
Has there been any recent standout shows that you can recommend people to keep an eye on?
This season we have a fantastic mix of top-name shows, including Blood Brothers and Dirty Dancing, plus the UK tour of Nativity!
Blood Brothers and Dirty Dancing have both achieved cult status with their respective fan bases and Nativity! is the perfect family Christmas treat!
What's coming up next that is keeping you busy?
Panto is always a year-round project that keeps the whole team busy (and this year is no exception), with a brand-new title for us – Robin Hood. Plus we're already looking ahead to next season which will feature Kinky Boots and War Horse as some of our highlights!
(Benidorm - Live! is currently on at the theatre until Saturday. Get tickets here >>)
If you could change one thing about the live entertainment industry, what would it be?
I'd want to change the perception it has that it's elitist and unaffordable. It's true that some shows come with a certain price tag – putting on a show and touring it around the UK isn't a cheap project – but tickets for the vast majority of our shows start from around £12.50.
What's been your proudest moment working at the venue?
I always feel most proud when I see people visit for the very first time, whether that’s customers, producers or guests – and watch them gaze upward to our beautiful Wedgwood-inspired dome.
Are there any interesting facts/stories about the venue that people might not know, but should?!
The theatre was opened by Sir Derek Jacobi in 1999 – and shortly after officially opened by Her Majesty the Queen!
Track the Regent Theatre here to keep up to date with all forthcoming events. You can also catch them on their official website, Facebook page, and Twitter, account.