Port Sunlight’s Gladstone Theatre celebrates landmark

Aug 5 2009 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

THE Gladstone Theatre is launching its new season with a concert celebrating 25 years since the formation of the trust which secured the venue’s future.

The autumn programme starts on Saturday, August 29 with Song and Brass 2009, featuring performances by the Flint Male Voice Choir, Port Sunlight Lyceum Brass Band and soprano Davina Jones.

The Gladstone Theatre Trust formed in 1984 and was a joint venture between the Stork Dramatic Society, Port Sunlight Players and Bebington Dramatic Society to safeguard the future of the historic Port Sunlight theatre.

Opened in 1891 by William Gladstone MP, the building was originally a dining room for male workers at the Lever Brothers factory.

Marketing co-ordinator Alan Davies told Live Guide:

“The trust started with £5,000 each from Unilever and, apart from a grant about 10 years ago from the North West Arts Board, all the money raised has come from public donations and small profits. Every penny has been ploughed into theatre improvements.”

Proceeds from the last year have been used to improve and install new technical equipment and lighting. A new on-line booking system will also be in place from this week.

Back on stage, the Gladstone is serving up another stellar selection of musicals, plays and comedy in the run-up to Christmas.