A New Dawn

The idea to have a new, purpose-built theatre was created following the destruction of the Empire Theatre in Longton by fire on New Year’s Eve 1992 after plans to purchase this wonderful period property came to an abrupt end

Fund Raising had started by the Rep members in 1991 and the new build project received the help of the Arts Council, a National Lottery grant, the support of the City Council, funds raised by the membership and the generous sponsorship of numerous local companies and businesses

Plans for the new theatre were drawn up by Hulme Upright and Partners in October 1993 and approved

The first sod was cut at a ceremony at the Leek Road site attended by Sir Richard Bailey and those Rep members who had helped to steer and coordinate the project

The vision slowly but surely became reality

On November 7th 1997, at a Gala Evening, The Players were proud to open a brand new 250 seat theatre in Leek Road, Stoke-on-Trent.

It was opened by the guest of honour, the Right Honourable Mark Fisher MP, Minister for The Arts.