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The Gordon Craig Theatre
The Gordon Craig Theatre Auditorium
Map
AddressLytton Way
Stevenage, Hertfordshire
Coordinates51°54′04″N 0°12′20″W / 51.9010409018°N 0.2055322816°W / 51.9010409018; -0.2055322816
OwnerStevenage Leisure Ltd. (on behalf of Stevenage Borough Council)
Capacity1,701 (across 2 halls)
Construction
Opened1975 (1975)
ArchitectRay Gorbing
Website
The Gordon Craig Theatre Homepage

The Gordon Craig Theatre is the only major theatre in Stevenage, Hertfordshire. Opened in 1975, the 501-seat theatre on Lytton Way houses its own rehearsal room, scenic workshop, wardrobe,[1] cafe, bar, and art gallery.[2]

Overview

[edit]

The theatre is housed in the Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, which is situated on Lytton Way, directly opposite Stevenage Railway Station and is connected to the station by a bridge extending across the dual carriageway. The Arts & Leisure Centre is accessible by train (via the bridge), car (via Lytton Way), bus (via Stevenage Bus Interchange) and foot (via the Town Centre). Taking its name from Edward Gordon Craig, the internationally renowned theatre practitioner who was born less than a mile away,[3] the theatre has become a key part of the cultural offering of the area.[4] Designed to accommodate orchestral concerts alongside produced and visiting theatrical events, it has also been used to screen films and host organ recitals.[5] The Theatres Trust describes the theatre as: "probably the best-designed civic entertainment centre of its type in the country".[6]

The theatre was officially opened in February 1976 by HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.[7]

The Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre contains two halls. The smaller of these is the Gordon Craig Theatre itself, which has a capacity of 501. The stage features a proscenium up to 12.2m wide and the stage depth is 7.62m.[8] The theatre boasts a proud tradition of presenting plays, pantomime, opera, dance and orchestral concerts.[9]

Also located within the Arts & Leisure Centre is the Concert Hall, derived from a large gymnasium,[6] which has a capacity of 1,200. The concert hall plays host to a variety of shows including live music and comedy.[9]

History

[edit]

From the early 1960s there was discussion on the need for an Arts / Leisure centre in the new town of Stevenage.[10] In 1968 Stevenage Arts Trust resolved to commence the building of an Arts Centre on land granted by Stevenage Development Corporation. Architects Messrs Vincent, Gorbing and Partners drew up detailed plans for a 488-seat theatre to cost £300,000.[11] The scheme was put on hold due to a lack of capital. In 1968 a feasibility study was commissioned by Stevenage Urban District Council and the Stevenage Development Corporation for a combined Arts/Sports Centre.[12] In 1969 Stevenage Urban District Council and Stevenage Development Corporation accepted the Initial Design Brief prepared by the architects.[13] In 1972, the architects confirmed that the final design drawings were completed, the final cost was estimated at £1,610,218. The foundation stone was laid on 14 June 1974 by Baroness Lee, the former Labour minister, Jennie Lee. Opening for The Danesgate Theatre, as the building was then to be known, was planned for November 1975.[14]

Naming and Openings

[edit]

On the suggestion of Roger Dyason, the first Arts' Manager of the Centre, proposal was made in August 1975 to a Full Council Meeting of Stevenage Borough Council that the theatre should be named The Gordon Craig Theatre. This motion was passed.[15] The £2.7 million sports and arts centre opened to the public on 3 November 1975 with a gala variety bill produced by Bunny Baron featuring Ted Rogers.[1] The Leisure Centre was officially opened in February 1976 by HRH Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh, accompanied by the Director of Leisure Services at Stevenage Borough Council, Mr M. L. Banks.[16]

Design

[edit]

The theatre has a plain, fan-shaped auditorium with excellent sightlines. It is a modern, fully-equipped touring and, occasionally, producing theatre with fourteen dressing rooms, an optional orchestra pit, and has an intimate atmosphere; it has also been used for cinema screenings.[6]

Architect Ray Gorbing's original exterior design proved controversial. It attracted both admirers and those horrified at the aesthetic of the building.[17] Panels of glass and reinforced plastic had been used to insulate the building against noise from rail, road and overhead aircraft. The orange coloured cladding led to it being nicknamed "Gorbing’s orange box".[18] The Architects' Journal described the building: "designed as a simple rectangular coloured box… it reflects the integration of activities within and also expresses the introvert nature of these activities…the bright colour provides a positive image."[19] The orange cladding was later replaced.

Performances

[edit]

The programme offered by the Gordon Craig Theatre is currently strongly focused on music (including tribute bands), comedy, popular dance, popular entertainment and family shows. The theatre also plays host to productions presented by local amateur and community groups. In addition, since 2012 the theatre has produced three shows in-house annually, incorporating musicals and drama.[20]

Pantomimes

[edit]

One of the major highlights of the yearly programme is the pantomime. Incorporating some of the top names in the entertainment world and budding local performers, the theatre's pantomime attracts record-breaking attendances year on year.[9]

Pantomimes at The Gordon Craig Theatre
Year Production Cast Included: Director Producer Ticket Prices Features Refs.
1975/1976 Dick Whittington George Chishold, Alan Wells, Don Crann, Sandra Carrier, Jackie Gaytone, Graham Woolnough Bunny Baron £0.70–1.00 [21]
1976/1977 Cinderella Adrienne Posta, Anita Graham, Elizabeth Suggars, Henry Metcalfe, Stanley Beard, Vivienne McKee Robin Bowditch Mark Furness £1.00–1.40 two real ponies [22]
1977/1978 Babes in the Wood Alan Granville, Davies and Gray, Elise Gilman-Abel, Eunice Black, Jan Austen, John Boulter, John Bromley, Rodney Diak Tony Clayton £1.10–1.60 [23]
1978/1979 Mother Goose
1979/1980 Aladdin Alan Randall, Carol Leroy, David Barry, David Masterman, George Reibbitt, Roz Cole, Sara Rae-Maddern, Valentine Palmer Ron Richards Malcolm Knight £1.40–2.00 [24]
1980/1981 Jack and the Beanstalk Bob Grant, Charlie Gray Ron Richards Malcolm Knight £1.80 - £2.50 [25]
1981/1982 Sinbad the Sailor Alan Randall, Ken Wilson, Michele Breeze, Richard Wilding, Adam Daye and John O’Flynn Ron Richards Malcolm Knight £2.20–3.20 [26]
1982/1983 Goldilocks and the Three Bears Deborah Watling, Colin Baker, Michael Sharvill Martin, Spencer K Gibbins, Davis & Field
1983/1984 Cinderella Peter Byrne, Betty Benfield, Kathryn Apanowicz, Ken Wood, Linda Hayden, Nigel Ellacot, Peter Robbins, Spencer K. Gibbins Peter Byrne Paul Elliott £2.25–4.00 Perrier Petite Ponies [27]
1984/1985 Puss in Boots Andrew Betts, Bobby Crush, Carol Leroy, Georgina Cole Young Set, Jane Stevens, John Ayldon, Mimi Law Charles Haley Productions £2.25 - £4.00 [28]
1985/1986 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Nicholas Smith, Nicola Bryant Kevin Wood Kevin Wood Productions [29]
1986/1987 Aladdin Floella Benjamin, Paul Laidlaw, Peter Denyer Kevin Wood Productions
1987/1988 Dick Whittington Ian Lavender, Ricky Simmons, Jane Hardy, Peter Denyer Kevin Wood Productions £2.80–5.30 [30]
1988/1989 Babes in the Wood John Clegg, Nigel Pivaro, Paul Laidlaw, Tessa Hatts Paul Laidlaw Kevin Wood Productions £3.25–5.95 a real waterfall [31]
1989/1990 Cinderella Barbara Windsor, Richard Whitmore, Bobbie Lawrence, Paul Laidlaw, Steve Marsh, Richard Swerrun Paul Laidlaw Kevin Wood Productions £3.25–6.50 [32]
1990/1991 Mother Goose Alfred Marks, Terry Hall, Paul Laidlaw, Steve Marsh, Dorothy Vernon, Claire Woyka, Peter Russell, Nigel Makin Kevin Wood Productions £3.50–7.00 dancing fountains [33]
1991/1992 Jack and the Beanstalk Ruth Madoc, Paul Laidlaw, Steve Marsh Paul Laidlaw Kevin Wood Productions £4.65–8.15 [34]
1992/1993 Puss in Boots Jack Smethurst, Paul Laidlaw, David Horn, Terry Gleed, Andrew Truluck Paul Laidlaw Kevin Wood Productions [35]
1993/1994 Aladdin Barbara Windsor, Paul Laidlaw, Jeff Stevenson Paul Laidlaw Kevin Wood Productions £5.00–9.50 flying carpet, cascading waterfall [36]
1994/1995 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Maggie Dence (Neighbours), Michelle Hatch, Warwick Davis, Kim Smith, Andrew Truluck Malcolm Farquhar Kevin Wood Productions [37]
1995/1996 Dick Whittington John Altman, Colin Deveraux, John Pickard, Mark Rattray, Andrew Truluck, Amanda Noar Peter Denyer Kevin Wood Productions
1996/1997 Sleeping Beauty Kate O'mara, Mark Rattray Peter Denyer Kevin Wood Pantomimes £6.50–11.25 [38]
1997/1998 Jack and the Beanstalk Toby Anstis, Jess Conrad, Colin Devereaux, Alistair Divall, Deborah Chad Peter Denyer Kevin Wood Pantomimes £7.00–11.25 [39]
1998/1999 Cinderella Romana D'Annunzio, Arvid Larsen, Paul Zerdin, Richard Cawley, Scott St Martyn, Richard Whitmore, Joanne Conway Peter Denyer Kevin Wood Pantomimes Ice Skating Scene
1999/2000 Aladdin Diane Louise Jordan (Blue Peter), Colin Devereaux, Warwick Davis, Marcel Bracks (Heartbreak High) and Philip Madoc Peter Denyer Kevin Wood Pantomimes £7.95–12.45 jewelled cavern, laser spectacular [40]
2000/2001 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Toyah Willcox, Colin Devereaux, Warwick Davis, Jez Edwards, Scott St Martyn, Sophie Martin, Stephen Gaunt Peter Denyer Kevin Wood Pantomimes £7.25–12.85 laser in the forest [41]
2001/2002 Dick Whittingdon Jez Edwards, Jonathan Owen, Lynette McMorrough, Peter Duncan, Philip Madoc, Scott St Martin Peter Denyer Kevin Wood Pantomimes laser show [42]
2002/2003 Cinderella Bradley Walsh, Jack Edwards, Lynette McMorrough, Melissa Familly, Scott St Martyn, Stephen Hunt Peter Denyer Kevin Wood Pantomimes Real Ponies and Carriage [43]
2003/2004 Jack and the Beanstalk Bradley Walsh, Paul Laidlaw, Emily Brooks, Jack Edwards, Ben Dudley, Amanda Hall Paul Laidlaw Kevin Wood Pantomimes Laser Show
2004/2005 Aladdin Gemma Harris, Graham Kent, Lucy Benjamin, Mike McClean, Paul Laidlaw, Scott St Martyn Paul Laidlaw Kevin Wood Pantomimes £8.00–17.00 Laser Show [44]
2005/2006 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Shane Lynch, Sarah Shepherd, Paul Laidlaw, Ben Roddy, Steve Walls Paul Laidlaw Kevin Wood Pantomimes £10.00–17.75 [45]
2006/2007 Dick Whittington Paul Laidlaw, Jack Edwards, Sheila Ferguson (The Three Degrees and I'm a Celebrity), Stefan Booth (Hollyoaks) Paul Laidlaw Evolution Pantomimes £9.00–19.50 Projection Underwater Scene [46]
2007/2008 Cinderella Ben Nicholas, Amanda Barrie, Paul Laidlaw, Scott St. Martyn, Ben Roddy, Rachel Jerram Paul Laidlaw Evolution Pantomimes Real Ponies and Carriage
2008/2009 Jack and the Beanstalk Ben Nicholas, David Spinx, Claire Huckle, Kate Burrell, Keith Miller, Paul Burling, Paul Laidlaw, Scott St Martyn Paul Laidlaw Evolution Pantomimes Laser Show [47]
2009/2010 Aladdin John Altman, Paul Laidlaw, Tom Beard, Phil Holden, Junix Inocian, Kate Burrell, Craig Perry, Laura Emmitt Paul Laidlaw Evolution Pantomimes Laser Show [48]
2010/2011 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Sue Holderness, Daniel Boys, Paul Laidlaw, Katie Rowley-Jones, Chris Clarkson, Claire Rickard Paul Laidlaw Jordan Productions Snow Scene [49]
2011/2012 Beauty and the Beast Bernie Nolan, Paul Laidlaw, Leanne Jones, Chris Clarkson, Rachel Jerram, Graham James, Simon Pontin Chris Jordan Jordan Productions Magical Flying end of Act 1
2012/2013 Robin Hood Brian Capron, Paul Laidlaw, Tracey Penn, David Dobson, Ray Griffiths, Paul Bentley, John Alistair, Francesca Leyland Chris Jordan Jordan Productions Waterfall and Rain
2013/2014 Cinderella Gillian Wright, Paul Laidlaw, Derek Walker, Scott Cripps, Rebecca Tyson, Rebecca Lisewski, Imogen Brooke, Graham James Chris Jordan Jordan Productions Flying Horse and Carriage
2014/2015 Aladdin Shaun Williamson, Paul Laidlaw, Junix Inocian, Aidan O'Neill, Hannah Malekzad, CG Fraser, Micha Richardson, Christina Hoey, Adam Shorey Chris Jordan Jordan Productions Laser Show
2015/2016 Sleeping Beauty Wendi Peters, Paul Laidlaw, Aidan O'Neill, Gregor Stewart, Daniella Piper, Nicola Bryan, Paul Bentley Chris Jordan Jordan Productions CO2 Jets,

Flame Projections

2016/2017 Peter Pan Tom Lister, Paul Laidlaw, Aidan O'Neill, Twist & Pulse, Ewan Goddard, Laura Baldwin, Amanda Coutts, Sinead Long, Amy Oxley Chris Jordan Jordan Productions Water Fountains and Ball Pit
2017/2018 Jack and the Beanstalk Cliff Parisi, Melanie Masson, Paul Laidlaw, Aidan O'Neill, Lisa Mathieson, Victoria Farley, Sion Tudor Owen, Matt Lee-Steer Chris Jordan Jordan Productions Giant Beanstalk that was climable
2018/2019 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Hannah-Jane Fox, Matt Lapinskas, Paul Laidlaw, Aidan O'Neill, Hannah Boyce, Ray Griffiths, Lee Hill, Greg Doherty, Hayley Burroughs, Karen Anderson, Mark Sealey, James Lusted Chris Jordan Jordan Productions Snow Scene
2019/2020 Beauty and the Beast Carli Norris, Paul Laidlaw, Aidan O'Neill, Grace Lancaster, Alex Scott-Fairley, Rebecca Vere, Neil Stewart Chris Jordan Jordan Productions Auditorium Flying
2021/2022 Aladdin Aidan O'Neill, Stuart Nurse, Alex Wright, Steven Serlin Chris Jordan Jordan Productions Water Pit and Slosh!
2022/2023 Cinderella Aidan O'Neill, Chris Aukett, Christian Andrews, Harriet Bunton, Tara Yasmin, Gabby Williams, Rosemary Annabella Nkrumah Chris Jordan Jordan Productions £12.50 - 27.50 Flying Horse
2023/2024 Sleeping Beauty Aidan O'Neill, Bobby Delaney, Glenn Adamson, Emma O'Dell, Nicola Bryan, Raquel Jones, Paul Kemble Chris Jordan Jordan Productions £13.50 - 29.00 Dragon, Time Machine

Gordon Craig Theatre Productions

[edit]
Productions made in-house at The Gordon Craig Theatre
Opening Date Production Cast Included: Director Musical Director Set Design Other Creative Team Members Refs.
16 June 1999 Noel and Gertie Ian Lavender, Kate O'mara Christopher Wren Greg Arrowsmith Bob Bustance (LX) [50]
3 April 2002 Pinocchio Greg Arrowsmith [51]
26 August 2003 Crazy for You [52]
14 April 2004 Hansel and Gretel Paul Laidlaw Greg Arrowsmith [53]
24 August 2004 Titanic: The Musical Paul Laidlaw Chris Keen [54]
15 August 2005 42nd Street [55]
2 April 2008 Peter Pan: The Musical Jeremy Barlow, Granville Saxton, Sarah George, Rachel Jerram Paul Laidlaw Peter Golding Helga Wood Bob Bustance (LX)Jacqueline Mason (Choreography) Luke Hyde (Sound)
15 April 2009 Beauty and the Beast Katie Lavelli, Wesley Hughes, Jim Welsman, Amy Bird Paul Laidlaw Robert Cousins Helga Wood Bob Bustance (LX)Jacqueline Mason (Choreography) Luke Hyde (Sound) [56]
14 April 2010 The Adventures of Mr Toad Chris Nelson, James Rowntree, Matt Lee-Steer, Granville Saxton, Stuart Simons, Amy Bird, Nerys Martin, Emil Dale, Danielle Fennymore, James Williamson Paul Laidlaw Tom Gearing Andy Newell Bob Bustance (LX)

Jacqueline Mason (Choreography)

Dave Nott (Sound)

16 August 2010 Guys and Dolls Elizabeth Pruett, Bradley Clarkson, Nerys Martin, Andrew Hodson Tracy Collier Chris Keen Scenic Projects Bob Bustance (LX)

Drew Varley (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

[57]
20 April 2011 The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe Kimberly Ensor, Chris Skinner, Amy Bird, James Williamson, James Rowntree, Emil Dale, Amber Wallis Catherine Lomax Tom Gearing Scenic Projects Bob Bustance (LX)

Flik Swan (Choreography)

Dave Nott (Sound)

11 April 2012 Pinocchio: Gepetto's Musical Tale Harriet Lomax, Claire Rickard, Stephan Dean, Rakesh Boury, James Franklin, Nathan Lubbock-Smith, Caroline Rodgers, Rob Paice, Michelle White Catherine Lomax Rob Cousins Andy Newell John Maddox (LX)

Philip Joel (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

16 August 2012 The Sound of Music Natalie Blenford, Wendy-Lee Purdy, Amy Percival, Amy Bird, Michelle White, Lawrence Stubbins, Kim Taylforth, Matthew Waters Catherine Lomax Chris Keen Scenic Projects John Maddox (LX)

Khiley Williams (Choreography) Luke Hyde (Sound)

18 October 2012 Woman in Mind Chris Clarkson, Angie Smith, Tim Heath, Ian Houghton   Catherine Lomax Michael Humphries Ben Locke (LX)

Phil Nunnington (Sound)

[58]
11 April 2013 Peter Pan Amy Bird, Grace Lewis, David Haydn, Sarah Lawn, Martyn Payne Catherine Lomax Phil Dennis Andy Newell John Maddox (LX)Khiley Williams (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

[59]
22 August 2013 Fame Ricardo Castro, Brett Nelson, Matt Lee Steer, Kimberley Ensor, Cris Blackham Catherine Lomax Chris Keen Andy Newell John Maddox (LX)

Khiley Williams (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

[60]
16 April 2014 James and the Giant Peach Louisa Roberts, Olivia Holland-Rose, Ryan Owen, Caroline Rodgers, Laura Crowhurst Catherine Lomax Robert Cousins Andy Newell Pete Kramer (LX)

Khiley Williams (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

Lisa Hickey (Costume)

[61]
18 August 2014 Hairspray Francesca Fenech, Linda John-Pierre, Simon Anthony, Daniel Page Catherine Lomax Chris Keen Scenic Projects Pete Kramer (LX)Khiley Williams (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

Lisa Hickey (Costume)

[61]
15 April 2015 Charlotte's Web Harriet Payne, Cameron Leigh, Will Brechin Catherine Lomax Phil Dennis Andy Newell Pete Kramer (LX)

Khiley Williams (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

Lisa Hickey (Costume)

[62]
18 August 2015 Sister Act Michelle Chantelle Hopewell, Arthur Bostrom, Pippa Winslow Catherine Lomax Chris Keen Scenic Projects Pete Kramer (LX)

Khiley Williams (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

Lisa Hickey (Costume)

[63]
21 October 2015 Moonlight and Magnolias Mark Little, Alexis Caley Catherine Lomax Al Rivers [64]
24 March 2016 Alice in Wonderland Thomas Sutcliffe, Natasha Karp, Abbie Chambers Catherine Lomax Phil Dennis Andy Newell Pete Kramer (LX)

Khiley Williams (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

Lisa Hickey (Costume)

[65]
17 August 2016 Singin in the Rain Mike Denman, Katie Warsop, Craig Armstrong Catherine Lomax Chris Keen UK Productions Pete Kramer (LX)

Khiley Williams (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

Lisa Hickey (Costume)

5 October 2016 Bedroom Farce Caroline Rodgers, Chris Aukett, Ben Roddy, Paul Lavers Catherine Lomax Al Rivers [66]
13 April 2017 Rapunzel Samantha Noel, Cameron Leigh, James Donovan, Julie Stark Catherine Lomax Phil Dennis Andy Newell Pete Kramer (LX)

Khiley Williams (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

Lisa Hickey (Costume)

[67]
29 August 2017 The Producers Ali Bastian, Paul Easom, Ryan Owen, Oliver Stanley, Daniel Page, Phil Joel Catherine Lomax Phil Dennis Scenic Projects Pete Kramer (LX)

Khiley Williams (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

Lisa Hickey (Costume)

[68]
1 November 2017 Up 'n' Under Gemma Oaten Ben Roddy Connor Norris Dawn Meadowcroft (LX) [69]
1 April 2018 Sleeping Beauty Catherine Lomax Phil Dennis Connor Norris Pete Kramer (LX)

Khiley Williams (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

Lisa Hickey (Costume)

9 May 2018 Neighbourhood Watch Victoria Fitz-Gerald, Catherine McDonough, Paul Lavers Catherine Lomax [70]
28 August 2018 Oklahoma Catherine Lomax Robert Scott Scenic Projects Pete Kramer (LX)

Khiley Williams (Choreography)

Luke Hyde (Sound)

Lisa Hickey (Costume)

[71]
2 August 2022 Little Shop of Horrors(Co-Production withOutside the Box Productions) Cameron Neale, Daisy Amphlett, Connor Daly, Toby Boutall, Ellie Muir, Taylor Crampton, Pippa Williams Alison Kaby Jonny Gibson-Smith Scenic Projects Matt Carney (LX)Emily Cusden (Choreography)

Joe Leggett (Sound)

Amber Botteley (Costume)

Amy Ellis-Hall (DSM on the Book)

Notable Performances by Decade

[edit]

Visiting Amateur Groups

[edit]

The Gordon Craig Theatre was conceived by the local authority to provide amenities for Stevenage residents. It was built to a specification to allow use by large amateur operatic and dramatic societies with elaborate productions.[1] Its design architect, Ray Gorbing, was an avid member of local group The Stevenage Lytton Players.[72] Many local schools, colleges, dance, theatre, music, religious and Scouts groups have performed on the Gordon Craig Theatre's stage as well as these notable visiting groups:[73]

The English Sinfonia

[edit]

The English Sinfonia was an orchestra who made the Gordon Craig Theatre their home in 1997. To celebrate the residency, they commissioned Michael Nyman to write Strong on Oaks, Strong on the Causes of Oaks, a five-movement orchestral work taking its name from the Anglo-Saxon name of the town, "Sithenaece" meaning "Strong on Oaks".[74] The English Sinfonia's conductors, leaders and soloists at the Gordon Craig Theatre included Bramwell Tovey, Janice Graham, Nicolae Moldoveanu, John Lill, John Farrer, Julian Lloyd Webber and Evelyn Glennie.[75] The residency at the Gordon Craig Theatre ended in 2006.[76]

Saturday Mornings 1975–1993

[edit]

Saturday Morning shows for children were an integral part of the Gordon Craig programme in the theatre's early years. Jack Mayes lived and performed in the town and was a popular Stevenage personality, performing alongside his puppet Hairy Harry as "the almost famous Jack Mayes".[77] His shows ran from 1975 until 1993, when he finally called it a day at The Gordon Craig Theatre.[78]

Organ

[edit]

The theatre is also notable for the popular and still playable 1932 Christie theatre organ, which was installed in 1987 after originally being in the Carlton cinema, Tuebrook, Liverpool.[79] The re-homed Christie had its Grand Opening Concert at the Gordon Craig Theatre at 3:00pm on Sunday 27 September 1987. Five famous organists performed that afternoon; Frank Fowler (Managing Director of Hill Norman & Beard), George Blackmore, Joanna Fraser, Janet Dowsett and finally William Davies.[80] The console for the organ can be played in the orchestra pit or brought onto the stage.

The Christie Organ will be returning to the stage for the first time after a very long break, on 15 September 2022[81]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c Morley-Priestman, Anne (13 November 1975). "Stevenage Leisure Centre". The Stage.
  2. ^ "The Bistro & Gallery | Gordon Craig Theatre". www.gordon-craig.co.uk. Retrieved 15 May 2020.
  3. ^ "Edward Gordon Craig's Birthplace". www.edwardgordoncraig.co.uk. Retrieved 15 May 2020.
  4. ^ "Stevenage Re-Imagined" (PDF). www.stevenage.gov.uk. 2018. Retrieved 15 May 2020.
  5. ^ "The Gordon Craig's Heritage". The Gordon Craig Theatre Archive. 27 May 2019. Retrieved 15 May 2020.
  6. ^ a b c "The Theatres Trust". database.theatrestrust.org.uk. Retrieved 15 May 2020.
  7. ^ Smith, Janet (27 May 2019). "A Theatre for the New Town". The Gordon Craig Theatre Archive. Retrieved 15 May 2020.
  8. ^ "Technical Information". The Gordon Craig Theatre. Retrieved 15 May 2020.
  9. ^ a b c "About The Venue". The Gordon Craig Theatre. Retrieved 15 May 2020.
  10. ^ Williams, Emrys (1963). Stevenage Arts/Sports Centre. Stevenage Local Studies Library.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  11. ^ Stevenage Arts Centre. Stevenage Arts Trust. 3 August 1968.
  12. ^ Sweeting & Molyneux (1968). Feasibility Study for an Arts/Sports Centre for Stevenage.
  13. ^ "Leisure Centre's Looking Good". The Comet. 24 November 1971.
  14. ^ "A Theatre for the New Town". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 15 May 2020.
  15. ^ "The Gordon Craig's Heritage". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 15 May 2020.
  16. ^ "Opening of Leisure Centre". The Comet. 23 October 1975.
  17. ^ "Orange Surprise". The Comet. 23 October 1975.
  18. ^ "Gorbing's Orange Box". Midweek Gazette. 22 July 1975.
  19. ^ "Stevenage Leisure Centre". The Architects' Journal. 164: 1076. 8 December 1976.
  20. ^ "Stevenage Borough Council". www.stevenage.gov.uk. Retrieved 11 June 2020.
  21. ^ "Dick Whittington, December 1975 – January 1976". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  22. ^ "Cinderella, December 1976 – January 1977". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  23. ^ "Babes in the Wood, December 1977 – January 1978". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  24. ^ "Aladdin, December 1979 – January 1980". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  25. ^ "Jack and the Beanstalk, December 1980 – January 1981". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  26. ^ "Sinbad the Sailor, December 1981 – January 1982". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  27. ^ "Cinderella, December 1983 – January 1984". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  28. ^ "Puss in Boots, December 1984 – January 1985". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  29. ^ "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, December 1985 – January 1986". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  30. ^ "Dick Whittington, December 1987 – January 1988". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  31. ^ "Babes in the Wood, December 1988 – January 1989". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  32. ^ "Cinderella, December 1989 – January 1990". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  33. ^ "Mother Goose, December 1990 – January 1991". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  34. ^ "Jack and the Beanstalk, December 1991 – January 1992". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  35. ^ "Puss in Boots, December 1992 – January 1993". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  36. ^ "Aladdin, December 1993 – January 1994". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  37. ^ "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, December 1994 to January 1995". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  38. ^ "Sleeping Beauty, December 1996 – January 1997". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  39. ^ "Jack and the Beanstalk, December 1997 – January 1998". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 30 May 2020.
  40. ^ "Aladdin, December 1999 – January 2000". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 30 May 2020.
  41. ^ "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, December 2000 – January 2001". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 30 May 2020.
  42. ^ "Dick Whittingdon, November 2001 – January 2002". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 30 May 2020.
  43. ^ "Cinderella, November 2002 – February 2003". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 30 May 2020.
  44. ^ "Aladdin, November 2004 – February 2005". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 30 May 2020.
  45. ^ "Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs, November 2005 – February 2006". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 30 May 2020.
  46. ^ "Dick Whittington, January – February 2007". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 30 May 2020.
  47. ^ "Jack and the Beanstalk, November 2008 – January 2009". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 30 May 2020.
  48. ^ "Aladdin, November 2009 – January 2010". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 30 May 2020.
  49. ^ "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, November 2010 – January 2011". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 30 May 2020.
  50. ^ "Noel and Gertie, June 1999". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  51. ^ "Poster for Pinocchio, April 2002". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  52. ^ "Crazy For You, August 2003". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  53. ^ "Hansel And Gretel, April 2004". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  54. ^ "Poster for Titanic the Musical, August 2004". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  55. ^ "42nd Street, August 2005". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  56. ^ "Beauty and the Beast, April 2009". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  57. ^ "Guys and Dolls, August 2010". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  58. ^ "Woman in Mind (Stevenage, Gordon Craig Theatre) | WhatsOnStage". www.whatsonstage.com. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  59. ^ "Peter Pan – The British Musical (Stevenage, Gordon Craig Theatre) | WhatsOnStage". www.whatsonstage.com. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  60. ^ Burge, Laura (8 August 2013). "Fame the musical comes to Stevenage". The Comet. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  61. ^ a b "James and the Giant Peach (Stevenage) | WhatsOnStage". www.whatsonstage.com. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  62. ^ "Charlotte's spider story is key to Easter production at Stevenage's Gordon Craig Theatre". The Comet. April 2015. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  63. ^ "Who could resist sassy Sister? Stevenage's feelgood summer show is just around the corner". The Comet. 9 August 2015. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  64. ^ "Frankly, my dears, it's a classy comedy – watch out for Moonlight And Magnolias in Stevenage next week". Welwyn Hatfield Times. 14 October 2015. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  65. ^ "Alice gets set to step onto Stevenage stage for Gordon Craig Theatre's big Easter show". The Comet. 23 March 2016. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  66. ^ "Play: Bedroom Farce | Gordon Craig Theatre". www.gordon-craig.co.uk. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  67. ^ "Rapunzel | Gordon Craig Theatre". www.gordon-craig.co.uk. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  68. ^ "The Producers | Gordon Craig Theatre". www.gordon-craig.co.uk. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  69. ^ "Play: Up 'n' Under | Gordon Craig Theatre". www.gordon-craig.co.uk. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  70. ^ "Play: Neighbourhood Watch | Gordon Craig Theatre". www.gordon-craig.co.uk. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  71. ^ "Oklahoma! | Gordon Craig Theatre". www.gordon-craig.co.uk. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  72. ^ "The Stevenage Lytton Players". www.lyttonplayers.co.uk. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  73. ^ "Company | The Gordon Craig Archive". Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  74. ^ "The Gordon Craig's Heritage". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  75. ^ "English Sinfonia". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  76. ^ "Orchestra reaches its finale". The Comet. 13 April 2006. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  77. ^ "Jack Mayes". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 29 May 2020.
  78. ^ "It's Goodbye to the Hairy Harry Saturday Show". The Stage. 18 March 1993.
  79. ^ "Stevenage, The Gordon Craig Theatre". cinema-organs.org.uk. Archived from the original on 10 February 2017.
  80. ^ "The Mighty Christie Theatre Organ". The Gordon Craig Archive. Retrieved 5 June 2020.
  81. ^ "Theatre Trust – Gordon Craig Theatre". theatretrust.org.uk. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
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