Palace Theatre

What isn’t generally appreciated is that during the 1977 rebuild, by the Cameron Mackintosh organisation, the ‘new stage-house,’ mentioned by Ken Roe, was actually extended across the rear, service alleyway and into the structure of the building at the rear, Bridgewater House. This provided a much deeper stage, enlarged production facilities and higher fly-tower. As the attached photo shows, this extension was carried out so that, externally, it does not appear to be part of the theatre. When the plans were first submitted, there was much discussion about altered sight-lines. It was questioned as to whether those patrons seated in ‘The Gods’ would actually be able to see to the back of the stage. In fact, if the full depth of the stage is utilised, they can’t; but this is rarely an issue.

Worth noting that the 1953 repairs to the façade (covering it with faïence tiles) was intended as a temporary post-war fix which heritage bodies have been eager to reverse for many years. The original windows can be seen peeking through the tiled walls.

Pictures from various years can be found here,
Exterior:-
http://www.flickr.com/photos/stagedoor/4045406945/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/stagedoor/4045407189/

Interior:-
http://www.flickr.com/photos/stagedoor/386594588/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/stagedoor/386594593/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/stagedoor/386594590/