The Theatre Royal Haymarket boasts a storied history, originally established in 1720 by John Potter, this iconic venue began as the "Little Theatre in the Hay," emerging from a lively area teeming with street performers and bustling merchants. It quickly made a name for itself, attracting notable figures such as Henry Fielding, whose 1729 hit "Tom Thumb" became an overnight sensation.
By 1741, under the guidance of the tempestuous yet innovative Charles Macklin, the Haymarket hosted what might have been the world’s first drama school, featuring live audiences. Despite occasional interruptions by police raids, Macklin’s ambitious endeavor left a lasting mark. The 1750s welcomed the flamboyant Samuel Foote, whose career was as dramatic as his productions. His tenure included a notorious leg amputation following a prank gone awry at a royal hunting party.
In 1820, the Theatre underwent a grand transformation thanks to the vision of architect John Nash, commissioned by the Prince Regent. Nash’s redesign not only enhanced the theatre’s neoclassical facade but also relocated it slightly south to align with St James’s Square, ushering in an era of architectural elegance and prestige.
Benjamin Webster took over in 1837, attracting luminaries like William Macready and earning the regular patronage of Queen Victoria. The Queen’s friendship with Webster led to the creation of the Royal Box and the VIP Room, features that remain coveted today.
Theatre Royal Haymarket continued to evolve, with the Bancrofts in 1879 introducing the proscenium arch and converting the pit into stalls, a move initially met with resistance but ultimately embraced. The 20th century saw a parade of iconic productions and stars, from Ralph Richardson to Dame Judi Dench, with the 2010s famously hosting the National Theatre’s "One Man, Two Guvnors."
Today, under the stewardship of Access Entertainment since 2018, the Theatre Royal Haymarket remains a beacon of creative excellence. Its perfect acoustics and intimate yet grand design continue to enchant audiences from around the globe, blending a rich history with a commitment to showcasing the world’s finest theatrical talents and emerging stars.
Details
- Address:
- 18 Suffolk Street
- SW1Y 4HT
- Contact:
- https://trh.co.uk/
- 020 7930 8890
- Transport:
- Railway station: Charing Cross Bus numbers: (Haymarket) 3, 6, 9, 12, 13, 15, 19, 23, 38, 53, 88, 139, 159