New Theatre
84 Abington Street,
Northampton,
NN1 2AP
84 Abington Street,
Northampton,
NN1 2AP
1 person
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Additional Info
Previously operated by: Howard & Wyndham Ltd.
Architects: William George Robert Sprague
Styles: Italian Renaissance
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The New Theatre was opened on 9th December 1912, and was designed by noted theatre architect W.G.R. Sprague. It was first operated as a variety theatre and famous ilusionist ‘Ramases’ topped the opening bill. Films were part of the variety programme from the early days. Seating was provided in orchestra stalls, dress circle and gallery levels. In 1914, it was screening many films, but then went back to live theatre, presenting drama, musicals, ballet & opera as well as weeks of variety.
In 1933, it was equipped with British Thomas Houston (BTH) sound equipment, and opened as a full time cinema with Ronald Colman in “Cynara”. However after a few weeks live shows began again, and cine-variety was being presented. At the end of 1934, it had screened its last film and returned to full live theatre use. The final show was “Strip-Strip Hooray” in 1958.
The New Theatre was demolished in 1960. Today, a branch of the clothing store Primark stands on the site.
Contributed by
Ken Roe
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Recent comments (view all 2 comments)
There is a very detailed history of the New Theatre from its beginning to its demolition, including photos, on this webpage.
The correct address is actually Abington Street. Reginald Foort, the organist, visited here with his travelling Moller organ, which was placed on the stage. Owing to the size of the instrument, it was necessary to excavate the base of the stage door to get it in. Foort was, effectively a local, being born in Daventry.