This Victorian theatre was built in only six months! It was originally called the Royal Comedy Theatre when it opened The Royal was dropped by 1884. Major reconstruction took place in the mid-1950's and the theatre re-opened on 14th December, 1955. The disadvantage that this old theatre has though is the use of columns to support the circles - leading to many of the seats having a 'restricted view' (around 125 seats). The theatre is perhaps most noted for the part it played in the late 1950's, overturning stage censorship. Most recent productions include the award winning comedy Steaming, and the award winning musical Little Shop of Horros; both of which occupied the theatre in the early 1980’s.