Don’t Miss What’s Happening At The Theatre Royal
The oldest theatre in Margate is getting a revamp
Oh no, it isnt! oh yes, it is! the theatre royal is making a comeback!
Serving entertainment in Margate since the 1700’s, the Theatre Royal is being restored to its former glory.
By Sophie Wareham.
Photos by Caitlin Neaves.
What Is The Theatre Royal?
The Theatre Royal is a spectacular old theatre that dates back to 1787 and is Kent's oldest.
It had its fair share of celebrities perform there from Charlie Chaplin to Sean Lock and it even appeared on the TV show Most Haunted.
Following its closure in 2022, it has been given a grant from The Theatres Trust to restore the elegant interior of the theatre and create some new additions ready to reopen in the near future.
Local photographer Caitlin Neaves has recorded what the Theatre Royal looks like now
Why is the theatre royal important to Margate?
It is considered a major asset for Margate and it plays a significant role in the history of the town.
It is a very valuable living piece of the past and has been brilliant entertainment for locals and visitors for centuries.
Reopening the doors not only means that live comedy, theatre, musicals, panto and more have a home in Margate but also means there are new opportunities for young people to get involved with the performing arts and creative industries.
The Theatre Royal has an incredible grand interior
What’s the history of the Theatre Royal?
The Theatre Royal was built in 1787 and was originally a music hall.
Through the years it changed to a chapel and then a cinema during the war and it is now the second oldest theatre in the UK.
Sarah Thorne was a prominent figure in the history of the Theatre Royal, acting at and managing the theater for many years with her father who she later took over the theatre from. She also ran a drama school here which is considered to be Britain's first such school. Scroll down and learn more about how she might even still be there in spirit today!
The Theatre Royal is living history of the arts industry in Margate
Is it really haunted?
Yes, the Theatre Royal is considered a haunted location. With flickering lights, moving curtains, slamming doors, footsteps and whispering being experienced by people who visit, it is also said that there is a familiar face that appears.
Sarah Thorne, former manager from the second half of the 19th century, is said to linger, with some people claiming to see her apparition.
There is also a story of an actor who fell from a viewing box and landed in the orchestra pit. People say they have seen the curtain move and hear a loud crash as if a body has hit the floor. It is said to have a sense of sinister presence in there particularly under the stage.
The theatre was investigated by TV show Most Haunted in 2002 and they reported encountering some unexplained phenomena. You can watch it here.
The Theatre Royal is one of the UK’s most haunted buildings
How is it being restored?
To restore the Theatre Royal the restoration team need to organise extensive repairs to the roof and new ventilation systems but they also need to repair some windows and plastering, making sure to keep its Victorian era look.
Some of the new plans could include a new bar and cafe, a 50 seated studio theatre, a sound recording studio, rehearsal room and dance studio and also accommodation so they have a lot of work to do!
The restoration is being carried out by Thanet District Council.
The stunning ceiling at the Theatre Royal rivals the grand theatres of the West End
When will it reopen?
Thanet District Council have revealed the venue could begin to host shows and reopen by 2027!
