“It is the destiny of the theatre nearly everywhere and in every period to struggle even when it is flourishing.” ~Howard Taubman, 1964
For many years I dreamt of visiting a famous or historical theatre. My dream came true when I visited a theatre in London´s famous West End. I was fortunate to see Chicago the Musical back in 2004. Over the years I have come to believe that Europeans are very lucky to have theatres and the latest productions within reach. I envy them! Questions is: Do people appreciate it or do they take it for granted?
 |
| Source: Wikipedia |
Adelphi Theatre was the perfect place to satisfy my curious mind. It has a very interesting history that started in the early 1900´s. A merchant and his daughter founded it in 1806 and named it Sans Pareil. Over the years ownership changed hands many times and productions varied from French Operettas, English comic opera and even Charles Dickens stories that had been adapted for stage.
It was during this time that the original building was demolished. The new Adelphi had seating place for 1,500 people and standing room for 500. Not only did the theatre cater for dramas and plays but a murder was also committed! An actor who regularly performed at the theatre was stabbed to death in 1897 and some people believe his ghost haunts the theatre.
 |
| Source: Wikipedia |
The Adelphi had seen many successful musical comedies like: The Girl and the Earl (1904), The Dairymaids (1907), The Quacker Girl (1910), The Boy (1917), Clowns in Clover (1927) and Mr. Cinders (1929).
But it wasn´t until December 1930 when the newly restored theatre ,who now boasted an art-deco interior became really popular and famous. For the opening Jessie Matthews starred in the production called Ever Green.
Over the years the front-of-house areas of the theatre had been restored to its former original luster. In 1993 Andre Lloyd Webber became co-owner and opened his musical production Sunset Boulevard.
The theatre had seen many famous productions like: Evita, Chicago, Me and My Girl and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Me and My Girl originally starring Robert Lindsay and Emma Thompson had the longest run of nine years!
From February 2010, the Adelphi Theatre has been host to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new musical Love never dies.
I was very impressed with the theatre and the services that they offered. On arrival we were welcomed with a glass of champagne. The theatre inside is really beautiful. The seats are very comfortable and I had a great view of the stage. The sound was superb and the theatre provided a relaxed atmosphere.
Date Visited: March 2004
Where:Adelphi Theatre, Strand, London
Public Transport to the Adelphi Theatre
The nearest underground stations to the Adelphi Theatre are Covent Garden (Piccadilly line) and Charing Cross/Embankment (District, Circle, Northern and Bakerloo lines).
Unfortunately I couldn´t take photos inside the theatre but I found some incredible photos on Flicker by ´Stagedoor´. Have a peek inside!
This Adelphi Theatre in London is written on Nelmitravel