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Harlow Playhouse was the result of a long campaign for a venue
for the performing arts. In November 1957, a Theatre Working
Party was set up by local theatrical figures. The building of
the Playhouse was to be funded by a number of bodies, including
Harlow Development Corporation, the Arts Council of Great Britain,
the British Film Institute and Essex County Council. The First
Box Office opened in June 1971, and the Playhouse finally opened
on November 1, 1971 with a Gala Show starring Lulu.
The next 24 years saw a mix of live entertainment, film and visual
arts. Various new ventures were started, including the Harlow
Youth Theatre and Theatrevan, the Theatre-in-Education company
based at Harlow Playhouse. Sadly, on June 8, 1995 the Harlow
Theatre Trust went into voluntary liquidation. However, Harlow
Playhouse re-opened in May 1996.
Since then the Playhouse has become an important part of the
town’s identity and receives an overwhelming amount of support
from local residents. We produce three seasons of entertainment
a year, each containing a vast and diverse range of shows. With
musical tribute, dance, children’s entertainment, comedy, film,
drama and well-known musicals, there really is something for
everyone.
Left
to right:Dick Whittington,Oliver, Little Shop Of Horrors, Cinderella,
Romeo & Juliet and Spoonface Steinberg The programme continues to expand every year, bringing new tours
to the town, including Celebrity Entertainers and Live Bands,
as well as many local Dance Schools performing their annual showcases.
The annual Christmas Pantomime is one of the biggest Community
Pantomimes in the country, receiving excellent reviews both locally
and nationally and audiences of well over 12,000.
Harlow Playhouse is supported by a dedicated team of volunteers,
both backstage on a whole host of productions and in the front
of house with a tireless group of Ushers. The Playhouse Supporters
Club also provides invaluable assistance to the Playhouse in
numerous ways. Our mailing list ensures you never miss an offer
and every new brochure is sent direct to you, hot off the press.
We hope you enjoy visiting Harlow Playhouse and look forward
to welcoming you to the theatre.
Playhouse Theatre Manager
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