Links in course of preparation:

Derby & Nottingham Music Hall Association was founded in 1979 and now has over 100 members, involved in UK research and archive music hall and variety, having connections with the  British Music Hall Association and Grand Order of Water Rats. Eight meetings are held each year in Derby and Sutton in Ashfield. The objects of the Association are to establish, maintain and operate a theatre in Derby for the benefit of the community in the City of Derby and its environs.

Derby Hippodrome In the 16 years before it became a bingo hall, top class acts were to fill the theatre. Stars of international fame such as Marie Lloyd, Gracie Fields, George Formby, Max Miller, George Robey and Flanagan and Allen all appeared. It was in this theatre that Bud Flanagan composed Underneath the Arches during one of his visits.

The fact that this theatre needs saving for future generations to enjoy is indisputable. How this will be done is yet unknown. The current owners, Walkers, have done an invaluable job of looking after the building whilst it has been in their care - however it is not currently being used for its original purpose.

Imagine this beautiful theatre full of patrons laughing at the latest John Godber, enjoying Ken Dodd, Shakespeare, G&S and other musical greats. Imagine the opportunity for Derby to host Les Miserables, Miss Saigon or the Ballet.
If you feel this theatre has a future in Derby's theatrical future then register your opinion by mailing
action@derbyhippodrome.co.uk (More information will be added here as it presents itself.)
You can join Derby New Theatre Association over at
www.derbynewtheatre.co.uk
(Derby New Theatre Association is a Registered Charity No. 111227.)3

"A most valuable contribution to the theatrical profession": Robert Marlowe, producer and choreographer.


Your input on
Old Theatres
is always welcomed.

  If you have any memories of these golden days of entertainment, please let us know.

They might well help us to produce other publications in this field--and, perhaps even a book for you !

(But please be kind enough to enclose a stamped addressed envelope for reply).

While we welcome photographs, please do not submit them unless requested.

At Wolverhampton, the Grand theatre's gorgeous act drop curtain is one of only two remaining in Britain. It shows a classical landscape within painted drapes, and features dancing maidens. The curtain has been preserved, but, for the time being, remains in storage for restoration.

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To contact us:

Phone: 01650 531565
07703 133337
Email: tezza@hawthorn48.freeserve.co.uk