In 1934, Cecil Chisholm published a book entitled Repertory. An Outline of the Modern Theatre Movement (London, Peter Davies Ltd., 1934).  While researching his book Mr. Chisholm visited many repertory companies both professional and amateur, including Leicester’s Little Theatre.   In a chapter titled ‘Why Not Build Your Own Theatre?’ he says:

“Suppose an old building – church, mission hall, or schoolroom – be available, but no ideal site for building a new theatre, it is open to the local playgoers to do what the Leicester Drama Society has done.  For that body now possesses a Little Theatre only slightly less perfect than that of Bournemouth, and certainly more luxurious than the Altrincham or Bath theatres.  Yet Mr. Herbert Pochin, the chairman, assures me that has not cost more than £7,550.  Of course, this delightful Little Theatre has a poor entrance.  It is almost impossible to do anything with the front elevation of the average Victorian, public building.  Yet it is difficult to pull down the front wall and replace it with even the quietest of modernised design without achieving a touch of the grotesque.  It may be said that Leicester has achieved everything that the heart of the theatre lover could desire for his theatre save a gracious exterior.”

As part of our centenary celebrations The Little Theatre and the Drama Society’s Archives will be open and we will be pleased to welcome anyone interested in the history of live theatre in Leicester and in family history relating to either the Baptist Chapel or a relative’s theatrical activities.   Guided tours will give visitors a different view of the building and its various stages of development.

Click here to visit the National Heritage Open Days website