1. A Storied Past: Origins & Early Years Leeds City Varieties began life in 1865 as Thornton’s New Music Hall and Fashionable Lounge—a vibrant “singing room” above the White Swan …
Theatre
-
TheatreTravel
The Howard Assembly Room: A Cultural Gem in the Heart of Leeds
by alan.dotchinby alan.dotchinTucked away behind the grandeur of Leeds Grand Theatre and within Opera North’s creative domain, the Howard Assembly Room stands as one of the city’s most atmospheric and intimate performance …
-
TheatreTravel
Opera North: A Northern Powerhouse of Music and Culture
by alan.dotchinby alan.dotchinOpera North is one of the UK’s most renowned opera companies, known for its artistic excellence, innovation, and dedication to making opera accessible to a wide audience. Based in Leeds, …
-
The Importance of Being… Earnest?—a vibrant and inventive reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s classic play—has captivated audiences at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and beyond. Developed by the theatre company Say It …
-
Theatre
Giuseppe Verdi’s Simon Boccanegra: A Masterpiece of Politics, Paternity, and Reconciliation
by alan.dotchinby alan.dotchinGiuseppe Verdi’s Simon Boccanegra is often overshadowed by his more frequently performed operas such as La Traviata, Rigoletto, or Aida. Yet among opera connoisseurs, it holds a special place as …
-
CultureMusicTheatre
The Magic Flute: An Opera of Mystery, Symbolism, and Enlightenment
by alan.dotchinby alan.dotchinIntroduction Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s The Magic Flute (Die Zauberflöte) remains one of the most beloved and frequently performed operas in the world. Premiering on September 30, 1791, at the Freihaus-Theater …
-
EventsTheatreTravel
Shen Yun: Reviving 5,000 Years of Chinese Civilization
by alan.dotchinby alan.dotchinIntroduction Shen Yun is a world-renowned performing arts company dedicated to reviving the rich cultural and artistic traditions of ancient China. Founded in 2006, the company has captivated audiences worldwide …
-
Theatre
Billy Elliot the Musical: A Story of Passion, Perseverance, and Social Change
by alan.dotchinby alan.dotchinIntroduction Billy Elliot the Musical is an award-winning stage adaptation of the 2000 film Billy Elliot, featuring music by Sir Elton John, lyrics by Lee Hall, and direction by Stephen …
-
We Will Rock You: The Legendary London Musical We Will Rock You, the musical inspired by the music of the legendary British rock band Queen, is a show that has …
The Grand Theatre & Opera House, Leeds: A Victorian Masterpiece at the Heart of Performing Arts
Historical Glory & Origins Architectural Grandeur Transformations & Restoration Artistic & Cultural Programming Community Impact & Legacy Visitor Experience & Amenities Design Icon & Architectural Critique Recent Highlights & Future …
Gripping. Intriguing. Step into powerful music. Who’s on stage Our long-time friends Opera North bring their epic chorus, magnificent orchestra and incredible cast to Sage One. What they’re playing Giuseppe …
Chicago: The Musical – A Timeless Tale of Crime, Fame, and Jazz
Introduction Chicago: The Musical is one of Broadway’s most enduring and beloved productions. With music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb, and a book by Ebb and Bob Fosse, …