Spotlight on….Darlington Hippodrome
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A place to discover…
The New Hippodrome and Palace Theatre of Varieties opened on September 2, 1907, and the grand Edwardian theatre is still going strong in 2023.
Signor Rino Pepi, the founder, opened several theatres around the country in his lifetime, but only Darlington Hippodrome remains open – a testament to both the optimistic entrepreneur and the strength of the artform itself. Over 100 years from first opening, surviving through two world wars, two pandemics, and the financial hardships of its creator, Darlington Hippodrome has changed a lot in some ways, but still maintains the Edwardian charm present in both the outside of the building and the auditorium.
There are a total of three galleries in the theatre – one on each floor – two of which host the work of local artists and schools, and the panto gallery on the top floor showcases the history of pantomime. Visitors to Darlington Hippodrome are welcome to walk around these galleries and discover the exhibitions.
A place to discover…
Back in 2016, the Hippodrome (then ‘Darlington Civic Theatre’) received a grant to renovate, increasing its seating capacity to 1,000, improving disabled access, and completely transforming the bar and lounge areas. The modern interior and amenities complement the Edwardian charm, making the theatre an ideal place to relax, hold meetings, and host events.
Since the renovation, the theatre has gone from strength to strength with numerous sell-out shows and a very positive reception from audiences and visiting companies alike. With the increased seating capacity, the Hippodrome has moved up a tier in the world of theatres, and its ready to welcome a host of world-class shows…
A place for everyone...
‘Theatre’ is both a vague term, and one that evokes a sense of wonder – almost a ‘poshness’, harkening back to the old days of black and white reels of people in their finest gowns and suits filing into their seats. In truth, while operas and ballets are still wonderfully performed at Darlington Hippodrome, the joy of theatre itself is open to everyone.
From musical legends like Jools Holland, breath-taking acrobatics with Cirque – The Greatest Show, Broadway hits such as Heathers the Musical, and of course a fantastic Christmas panto, there’s something for everyone. Even if you don’t think you like ‘theatre’, there’s almost certainly going to be something on that you’d love – even if it isn’t in the auditorium!
Not only does the Hippodrome play host to amazing shows, it also offers a variety of classes, events, and tours. These include dance classes for adults and kids alike, a comprehensive Youth Theatre catalogue, and backstage tours. Not only that, but there’s a large selection of summer classes for adults and children; from ring making to wand making, flower arranging to Burlesque, gin tasting to taster sessions for dance and theatre, there’s bound to be something for everyone.
To ensure that Darlington Hippodrome remains open to all, A Place For Everyone fund was established. This charitable fund opens up the theatre to audiences, practitioners, and performers, regardless of social, physical, or economic barriers. For many, particularly children and young people, the fund facilitated their first theatre experience.
A place to relax...
The Hippodrome isn’t just a place for shows, events, and classes, it’s also a place you can relax in. If you’d like to stop by and enjoy the atmosphere in your own time, then The Hippo Lounge is a contemporary café that offers a relaxed place to enjoy a coffee, sandwich, and cake, alongside access to free Wi-Fi.
There’s a whole cast’s worth of sandwiches, paninis, toasties, pastries, tray bakes, and donuts to enjoy, all of which are locally sourced, and the sandwiches, paninis, and toasties are made fresh in house every day. More than just a café, the Hippo Lounge is a fantastic place to meet up with groups, host work meetings, work out of the office, and relax in a comfortable atmosphere. The ‘third place’ can be rediscovered at the Hippo Lounge, where everyone is welcome and there’s no pressure to leave until you’re ready.
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