A Cornerstone of Barrow’s Cultural History
Her Majesty’s Theatre wasn’t just a building on Albert Street in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria – it was a cultural hub for over 100 years. Built in 1864 as the grand Theatre Royal, it became a cornerstone of entertainment for the town.
Imagine a bustling Victorian playhouse! The air buzzed with excited chatter as elegantly dressed patrons, enveloped in the scent of perfume and anticipation, gathered beneath glittering chandeliers. This early version sadly succumbed to a storm, but the show must go on, right? The theatre rose again in 1867, reborn from the ashes (or rather, storm) as a magnificent venue seating a whopping 1,500 people. Imagine sinking into a plush velvet seat, the gaslight illuminating the ornate gold leaf and crimson velvet that adorned the boxes, and feeling a shiver of excitement as the velvet curtain rose to reveal a brightly lit stage. #HerMajestysTheatre
A Century of Entertainment
Over the decades, Her Majesty’s went through several name changes and renovations, reflecting the evolving tastes of the times. In 1894, it donned the name “Empire Theatre of Varieties” and embraced the growing music hall scene. This vibrant space even witnessed the birth of cinema in Barrow, showcasing some of the very first moving pictures. Flickering images projected onto the large screen,
captivating the audience with the wonder of moving pictures.
A Community Hub
Fast forward to the mid-20th century, and Her Majesty’s transitioned into a repertory theatre, bringing live stage productions to the community. It was during this time that the theatre nurtured young talents like Sam McKinlay, who fondly recalls, “Spent time making scenery with Furness Youth Theatre there.” The enduring interest in this lost landmark is evident on the Furness Whisper Facebook page, where memories and stories continue to surface. This reminds us that Her Majesty’s wasn’t just a building; it was a space where people connected, created, and shared experiences. But by the 1970s, the grand old dame was showing her age. The once-majestic building had fallen into disrepair, and
with a heavy heart, the curtain closed for the final time in 1972. The building was eventually demolished, but the memories of laughter, drama, and wonder that unfolded within its walls – and the contributions of those like Sam McKinlay – live on.
A Legacy Lives On
Although the physical structure of Her Majesty’s Theatre is gone, its legacy continues to inspire and entertain. The stories of its past, the performances that graced its stage, and the memories of those who experienced its magic will forever be a part of Barrow’s rich cultural heritage.
Help us keep the memories of Her Majesty’s Theatre alive! Got a story or photo to share? Drop us a line at info@furness-whisper.uk or say hello through our contact page. Let’s preserve this vital part of Barrow’s history together!
#BarrowHistory #LostTheatres #HerMajestysTheatre #BarrowinFurness #LocalHistory #Nostalgia