insideKENT Magazine Issue 24 - March 2014 | Page 22

ARTS

'IT'S BEHIND YOU!'
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Kent's Superb Theatres

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WHEN IT COMES TO ENTERTAINMENT HOTSPOTS, KENT IS UNDOUBTEDLY LEADING THE
CULTURAL PACK. PLAYING HOST TO A WIDE VARIETY OF IMPRESSIVE SPACES, THE COUNTY'S
THEATRES LAY CLAIM TO A STELLAR LINE-UP OF WORLD-CLASS TOURING PRODUCTIONS,
COMEDY EVENINGS, LIVE MUSIC, LITERARY GREATS AND MUCH, MUCH MORE. WITH ALL
OF THIS RIGHT HERE ON YOUR DOORSTEP, IT WOULD BE RUDE NOT TO MAKE A TRIP TO
THE THEATRE A MORE FREQUENT OCCURRENCE IN YOUR 2014 DIARY.

Marlowe Theatre

Winter Gardens

Since its third reopening
in October 2011, the
Marlowe Theatre has
pioneered a new era of
theatre-going in
Canterbury. But that's not
all, as they're a dedicated
bunch over at the
Marlowe and in recent
years they have expanded their auditorium in a bid to host bigger and better
shows. In addition, there is also a Marlowe Studio in which a wide range
of gigs, workshops and performances take place. From comedy and dance
to musicals and celebrity talks, one thing is certain, there is more going on
at the Marlowe in 2014 than ever before. So what are you waiting for? Get
yourself down to Canterbury's cultural epicentre and get involved.
Marlowe Theatre, The Friars, Canterbury CT1 2AS
www.marlowetheatre.com

The largest theatre in Margate, Winter Gardens boasts two halls and dates
back to 1911. Celebrating its 104th birthday this summer, it's fair to say
that this coastal venue has been somewhat of a pioneer for seaside
entertainment over the last century. Still recognised as one of England's
finest theatres, this South East institution has welcomed some of the best
performers in the world, including Laurel and Hardy in 1947, The Beatles
in 1963, and more recently Status Quo. The Winter Gardens has also been
a major conference and exhibition centre, as well as becoming renowned
for its top-class catering.
Winter Gardens, Fort Crescent, Margate CT9 1HX
www.margatewintergardens.co.uk

Theatre Royal
Originally built in 1787 and
altered in 1874, Margate's
Theatre Royal is housed in a
Grade-II listed building and
remains one of the oldest
surviving theatres in the UK.
Boasting an exciting programme
of drama, music, comedy,
© Nicole Black
dance, exhibitions and talks, this
venue has indeed welcomed
many iconic stars through its prestigious doors over the years. Its mission:
'To offer the communities and artists of East Kent the opportunity to
experience, enjoy, take part in and develop high-quality artistic work both
inside and outside the theatre building, in the strong belief that such activity
will nurture skills, build credible aspirations, lift hearts, challenge minds,
improve society and produce great new work.'
Theatre, Royal, Addington St, Margate CT9 1PW
www.theatreroyalmargate.com

Hazlitt Arts Centre
This popular arts venue dates back to 1869, when a concert hall was
erected using old stone columns from the former market site. Named Hazlitt
Theatre after William Hazlitt—a local Maidstone resident who found fame
as an essayist—he town's entertainment was considered the rural alternative
to the West End. Today, the Hazlitt Arts Centre – as it's now known – offers
a packed calendar, from live shows and gallery exhibitions, to comedy and
family-friendly theatre. With so much going on, you're bound to find something
that tickles your fancy.
The Hazlitt Theatre, Earl Street, Maidstone ME14 1PL
www.hazlittartscentre.co.uk

Gulbenkian
Since opening in 1969,
Gulbenkian has remained
a key part of the University
of Kent’s Arts Centre,
offering innovative,
engaging and high-quality
arts activity for and with
the public, staff and
students. A gateway to a
rich programme of cultural
activities, this unique
theatre has successfully engaged the university with the wider public, while
driving its particular commitment to the creative empowerment of children,
young people and talent development.
Gulbenkian, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NB
www.thegulbenkian.co.uk

Orchard Theatre
Located in the heart of Dartford's
town centre, the Orchard Theatre has
long been West Kent's go-to hub for
all things entertaining. Attracting the
latest and most sought after touring
productions since its grand opening
in 1983, this local haunt has since
opened its stage doors to some of
theatres biggest names and in doing
so, gained a reputation as one of the
county's premier venues. From leading West End musicals, top comedians,
bands and dance to classical music, opera and annual pantos, it's all going
on at this Kent top spot.
Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford DA1 1ED
www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

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