Theatres
and Halls
in Birkenhead, Wirral, Merseyside
The Argyle Theatre,
Birkenhead
Also known as - The
Argyle Theatre Of Varieties / The Prince of Wales Theatre
Above - The Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead - From a 1930s
Postcard
T
he
Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead, was built for Dennis Grannell and opened
on Monday the 21st of December
1868
with a Music Hall Bill including the Cedas Troupe, John Barnum, Miss
M. Astropp, the McGregor Simpson Sisters, M. Bevani, Richardson &
Graham, the Hondra Brothers, and Fothergill and Summerson.
Right - A Poster for the Argyle Theatre of Varieties
for Monday January the 21st
1907
.
The
ERA
reported on the new Theatre
in their 27th of December
1868
edition saying:- 'Argyle Music Hall - (Proprietors, Messrs George Arundale
and Co.) - This new and elegant place of amusement was opened for the
first time on Monday, the 21st inst. The Hall is seventy feet in length
by forty-five feet wide, the height being forty feet, with two galleries
capable of seating 500 people, the body of the Hall accommodating a
similar number.
In connection with the Hall there are eight American
bowling alleys, seventy feet long, a large public billiard-room, tables,
and a select room. The whole has been built under the superintendence
of Mr Davis, architect,
Liverpool
,
at a cost of upwards of £10,000.
The opening performance on Monday was in every respect
a great success, the company at present under engagement comprising
Ceda's troupe of minstrels, Miss M. Astrop (Bravura vocalist), Mr J.
Barnum (comic), the Sisters M'Gregor Simpson (operatic and Scottish
vocalists), Mr Richardson and Miss Graham (dramatic sketches), Hondra
Brothers (gymnasts), and Messrs Fothergill and Summation (comic Irish
sketches).
Mr F. Springthorpe is a corteous and efficient Manager.
The orchestra includes Messrs C. W. Mackey (leader), J. Fish (pianist),
Alfred Cornish (cornet), Lawton (flute), and Ball (basso), and gives
great satisfaction to the audience.'
The above text in quotes was first published in the
ERA
, 27th of December
1868
.
The
Theatre had a change of name in
1876
to The Prince Of Wales Theatre, opening with the
pantomime
'Prince Bowbell', or the 'Illustrious Stranger' and was then generally
used for more conventional fair such as plays. A new proscenium was
erected at this time and the stage enlarged, along with various other
improvements to the building.
However, the name reverted back to the Argyle Theatre
in
1890
when it was used as
a
Music Hall
and
Variety
Theatre again. Dennis Grannell's nephew, Dennis J. Clarke, ran the Argyle
Theatre for 45 years from
1890
to 1935 and it became one of the most well known Theatres in the country.
Left - A Poster for the Argyle Theatre of Varieties for Monday the 1st of February
1892
.
Sir Harry Lauder began his career at the Argyle, and all
the names of the day performed there including
Dan
Leno
, George Robey, Vesta Tilley, Stan Laurel, Bud Flanagan, and
Charlie Chaplin.
Arthur Lloyd
is
known to have performed in Birkenhead in
1867
,
1890
, and
1893
.
Right - A Poster for the Argyle Theatre of Varieties for November 24th 1930 - Courtesy Mike Wood. Headlining in this show were the 'Houston Sisters'. One of the sisters, Renee Houston, went on to become a well known Film and TV actress.
The Argyle Theatre was the first Theatre to host radio
broadcasts, which were sent out all over the commonwealth on short-wave
radio, and the Argyle was also the only Theatre at the time to broadcast
to the USA.
The Theatre was a leader in the showing of Vitagraph Pictures,
Thomas Edison's early cinema, outside of London and even showed footage,
in
1910
, of King Edward VII's
funeral.
The Argyle Theatre continued to show films and newsreels
throughout its career but its main program was always live Theatre,
Variety
,
Pantomime
,
and
Music Hall
.
On the 21st of September 1940, an air raid during the
Battle of Britain resulted in the Argyle being destroyed by fire and
the Theatre's illustrious career had come to an end.
Left - The Auditorium of the Argyle Theatre after the fire of 1940 - From the Liverpool Echo, 10th of October 1940.
There is a list of productions and performances which
took place at the Argyle Theatre from 1885 to 1921 on the website of
the Sheffield University as part of their
National
Fairgrounds Archive
which you can download in a Word Document
here
.
The 1909 Illustrated Anniversary Souvenir
of The Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead with a brief synopsis of its history
chronicled by W. H. Donovan
Above - The Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead - From a sketch
in the 41st Anniversary Souvenir Programme for the Theatre in
1909
- Kindly donated by Maureen Shakeshaft.
T
he
primary object of the Management in presenting this little Souvenir
to their patrons is to chronicle the fact that the Argyle Theatre is
this year celebrating the Forty-First Anniversary of the date of its
opening, which interesting event took place on the 2lst of December,
1868
.
Right - The 1909 Illustrated Anniversary Souvenir of The Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead with a brief synopsis of its history chronicled by W. H. Donovan - Kindly donated by Maureen Shakeshaft.
It also affords an opportunity of indulging in a few reminiscences
in connection with the history of the Theatre that may possibly be as
interesting to its numerous patrons and habitues of to-day as the revival
of old time names and memories will be to those who remember and frequented
this popular place of amusement in its earlier days.
There is always a peculiar charm and pleasure to the enthusiastic playgoer
in recalling the theatrical recollections of youth, and there are few
of us who do not cherish some happy memory of the footlight favourites
who delighted us in the evenings of the days gone bye.
The
remarkable progress that the Variety Theatre has made and the daily
increasing popularity it enjoys among all classes of the amusement-seeking
and play-going public of today, is in marked contrast to the prejudice
and antipathy displayed towards the
Music
Hall
of nearly half-a-century ago.
Right - A sketch of J. Keating, acting manager, beside the Box Office
of the Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead. And an
Argyle Theatre Variety Poster with Bella & Bijou
topping the Bill in February
1910
- Courtesy Peter Cannon, Great Grandson of
Bella and
Bijou
.
The time was when a visit to a Music Hall had to be made surreptitiously,
from fear of offending Mrs. Grundy. The censorship of the songs and
jokes of the artistes was seldom exercised, and the vigilance of stage
managers in suppressing vulgarity deplorably lax.
To-day there is scarcely
a
town in the United Kingdom
that does not delight in the lavish architecture
of its modern Variety Theatre. The artistes are petted and patronized
by Royalty, and society receives them with open arms. From a glance
at the occupants of the stalls and boxes of a London Music Hall to-day,
it would not be inapropos to describe it as a "House of Peers."
We accept this as a happy and healthy sign of the times, and in doing
so, we desire to credit the present management of the Argyle Theatre
with that full measure of praise for the aims and efforts it has displayed
in assisting to bring about this welcome revolution.
Above - The New Entrance and Waiting Room of the
Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead in
1909
It
was in the year
1867
that the
late Mr. Dennis Grannell, (
Shown Right
) proprietor of the
Rotunda
Music Hall, Liverpool
, secured the site for the erection the building
known to us as the Argyle Theatre.
With
admirable foresight he saw the possibility the future would develop,
notwithstanding that the district adjacent and to the westward was waste
land and fields, from Grange Road, to Holt Hill, and from the Haymarket
to the Park.
His farseeing enterprise is manifest today in the crowds
that besiege the Theatre nightly.
Right - Dennis Grannell, founder and first proprietor of the Argyle
Theatre, Birkenhead.
Left - An Argyle Theatre Variety Poster with Bella & Bijou topping
the Bill in November
1905
-
Courtesy Peter Cannon, Great Grandson of
Bella and
Bijou
.
The Theatre was constructed and fitted with all the modern improvements
in lighting and seating, at an enormous cost.
In the architectural design
of the building, evidence of Mr. Grannell's perspicuity and business
acumen is not wanting. From the cellars and bowling alleys in the basement,
to the luxurious billiard saloons and residential portion of the establishment,
there is scarcely a yard of space that is not utilized.
The management was placed in the hands of Mr. George Arundale, and
the opening performance took place on 21st December,
1868
.
From a pen and ink copy of the first bill issued (
Shown Below
)
it will be seen how easily satisfied and simple the tastes of the patrons
were in those days when compared with the colossal combinations of stars
and expensive programmes provided for the present generation.
Above - Portraits of Bella & Bijou who are featured in two
of the Argyle Theatre Posters on this page - Courtesy Peter Cannon,
Great Grandson of Bella & Bijou who were also the original owners
of Walter Lambert's
Popularity Painting
for whom it is thought it was originally painted.
It
is also a curious fact that the prices of admission to nearly all parts
of the house were the same then as they are to-day. The £200 per
week artiste had not arrived, and it is probable that that £30
often covered the salary list of artistes, orchestra, and other liabilities.
In the present year of grace,
1909
,
the "top of the bill" rarely signs a contract for less than
£100 per week and the remaining artistes on the programme take
another £150.
Left - A Pen and Ink sketch of the first Bill issued from the Argyle
Theatre, Birkenhead - From the Theatre's 41st Anniversary Souvenir Programme.
It is also interesting to recall the names of some of the stars of
greater or lesser magnitude who entertained and brightened the lives
of Argyle patrons in the early days. Mr. Harry Linn was the "one
and only" Scotch Comedian, and the predecessor of our Harry Lauder,
minus his ability, and popularity. Mrs. F. R. Phillips was admittedly
the "Queen of Serio Comics." Hyram Travers revelled in Cockney
delineations. Nish and Martin, Craven and Conway, Pierce and Monaghan,
represented the profession as negro comedians, the "brilliant Black
Brothers of Burlesque," a type of humorist that has almost become
extinct.
The
Brothers Wilkinson, Barney Hopkins, Pat Feeney, Alexander Staunton,
were among the popular stage Irishmen. The Sisters Pedley, Sisters Mario,
Sisters Grosvenor, Will. Townley, the "Lancashire Vocalist,"
W.. J. Collins, the "Black Storm," Ned Cunningham (father
of. Minnie), N. C. Bostock, Cheevers and Kennedy, Frank Mordauut and
Lieutenant Cole, ventriloquists, are a few of the names of old favourites
who's names are chronicled in a portfolio of star celebrities.
Right - Harry Kilburn, music hall comic, singer, dancer, and actor
from
1879
to about
1910
.
He married Ruth Grosvenor of the stage act the Grosvenor Sisters, who
are mentioned above, in
1889
- Courtesy Harry's Great Nephew Steve Kilburn.
In
1876
the familiar name
of "The Argyle" was removed from the bills, and the title
of the establishment changed to The Prince of Wales Theatre. It was
opened for the season with the
pantomime
of
Prince Bowbell
, or the
Illustrious Stranger
. Mr. and
Mrs. Will Marchant, who were the reigning favourites of Birkenhead at
this period, scoring a great success, which was shared by Mr. J. S.
Foote, a clever comedian, Mr. Fred Charles, and the Sisters Pedley.
Above - The Stage of the Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead
in
1909
In
the same year the stage was enlarged, a new proscenium erected, and
many other improvements made. Mr. Charles Wood, the new manager, inaugurated
a dramatic season with a remarkably able and well-staged production
of Uncle Tom's Cabin; Mr. Tom Potter made a marked hit in the character
of Uncle Tom, a part he had won some distinction in, and Miss Kissie
Wood (now Mrs. H. C. Arnold, of the
Lyric,
Liverpool
), making a striking success as Topsy.
Right - A sketch of the Argyle Theatre's conductor, E. Denney.
Following upon this came a splendid and ambitious revival of Hamlet,
in which a clever young
Liverpool
actor, Mr. Walter Speakman, made a remarkable success as the melancholy
Dane. The local press described this as the finest representation of
Shakespeare's tragedy ever seen in the town. The dramatic season which
ran for several weeks was not altogether a financial success, and the
Variety
programmes were again reverted to.
In
1877
Messrs. Fineberg &
Lees, of the Liverpool "Star," instituted the Saturday and
Monday Concerts, during the summer months, under the direction of Mr.
Dan Saunders. There being no Mersey Railway at this period, the transmigration
of the artistes from one Hall to the other was carried on with great
difficulty.
It will not be out of place to note that in this year,
1877
,
the incorporation of the town took place, and Mr. Dennis Grannell, as
one of the Conservative candidates for Cleveland Ward, was elected by
a large majority, and remained a member of the Town Council for many
years.
Above - The Auditorium of the Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead
in
1909
The
year
1888
is memorable in the
annals of the Theatre as recording the first appearance of Mr. D. J.
Clarke (
Shown Below Left
) as Associate Manager with the late Mr. John
Riley. The now, almost general, system of two houses a night was initiated,
but, strange to say, was not a success, and after a nine weeks trial
was abandoned in favour of the old system.
Right - A Variety Poster for the Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead in January
1910
- Courtesy Jonathan Knowles , if you would like to buy this poster
click here
.
Three years later Mr. Clarke took up the sole responsible management
of the Theatre, and the success that he has since achieved is now a
matter of history.
There were innumerable wise-acres at the time, who
were kind enough to prophesy that the placing of such responsibility
on juvenile shoulders would end in failure and disaster, but here the
acumen and judgment displayed of his uncle, Mr. Dennis Grannell, was
again verified.
One of Mr. Clarke's first achievements was to break all previous records
in the receipts. He also inaugurated his prosperous regime by restoring
to the Theatre its original and most familiar title of "The Argyle."
Left - D. J. Clarke, sole proprietor and manager of the Argyle
Theatre, Birkenhead from
1888
.
On the 2nd February,
1903
,
the system of two houses a night was again introduced, but not without
some fear and trepidation. The success of the innovation has been remarkable
since its inception, and the two houses a night are now practically
universal throughout the country.
The multitude or friends and patrons
who have watched the progress of the Theatre, rejoiced in its prosperity,
and observed its ever-increasing popularity, will unite with us in paying
a tribute of admiration to the energy, judgment and enterprise displayed
in its management. Managers, agents, and artistes throughout the profession,
endorse and verify the good opinion the Birkenhead public have expressed
as to Mr. Clarke's ability.
Above - A sketch of D. J. Clarke signing contracts
from the morning's post at the Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead
The
recent structural alterations that have been carried out, and which
have added so much to the comfort and convenience of its patrons, and
enriched the internal and external appearance of the building merit
sincere, praise. By clever architectural manipulation the entrance and
access to the stalls and boxes have been made equal in construction
and decoration to many of the leading Variety Halls in
London
or the
provinces
. Short
of entire reconstruction of the building
the transformation effected by Mr. T. T. Rees, the architect, is, in
a sense, wonderful, and is the result of many months of anxious thought
and careful study on the part of the management.
Right - A sketch portraying D. J. Clarke's 'Ideal Bill' for the
Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead.
That the improvement is fully appreciated is evident in the crowded
houses to be witnessed. There is scarcely an artiste of note or repute
in the
variety
world who has not appeared,
or is engaged to appear. Many artistes who have attained eminence in
the profession, look upon the Argyle as their "mascot." In
this connection we may mention the names of Mr. Harry Lauder and Mr.
Wilkie Bard, two of the highest salaried and most popular comedians
in the profession.
Agents are employed in all parts of the-universe, and have commissions
to engage the best possible class of entertainers available, and to
secure any star artiste or novelty that may appear in the variety firmament.
It is not given to every Manager to attain that measure of success
that Mr. Clarke has won. He has been cradled in the Variety business,
and his whole mind and soul is wrapped up in it. It is a business, the
intricacies of which can only be mastered by years of experience.
He displays a wisdom and knowledge of its details in the value of artistes,
and the compiling of programmes that surprises, not only his brother
Managers, but also the general public. He has his finger on the pulse
of his patrons, and his one intent is only for their delight.
Left - H. O Neill, Secretary of the Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead.
It is Mr. Clarke's impression that his patrons visit his Theatre to
be amused and entertained, and it is his avowed object to provide the
best entertainment it is possible to procure. He believes in placing
before the playgoing public a clean and healthy bill of fare, and every
effort it is possible to make, is strenuously exercised in this direction.
His
fellow townsmen have still further shown their appreciation of his business
abilities by electing him a member of the Town Council as a representative
of Egerton Ward.
May the sun of prosperity long continue to shine upon him will be the
sincere wish of thousands of his patrons who have the privilege and
pleasure of his friendship. W. H. D.
Right - W. Thompson, a familiar personage "in front."
The above text and accompanying images are from the 41st Anniversary
Souvenir Programme for the Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead in
1909
- The Programme was Very Kindly donated by Mrs Maureen Shakeshaft who
says:-
'As a matter of interest I was brought up in Birkenhead and can
just about remember the building that had been the Argyle Theatre but
by that time it was ready for demolition. My father was a great fan
of the music hall and theatre and in his youth he lived very near Argyle
St, I have often wondered if he patronised the 'Argyle' I feel sure
he would have done.' Maureen Shakeshaft.
Above - The back cover of the 41st Anniversary Souvenir
Programme for the Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead
The Argyle Theatre for Youth by Geoff
Unwin
A
visitor to this site, Geoff Unwin, who performed for the Argyle Theatre
For Youth and was also the composer of the title song score for the
feature film 'On the Buses,' has sent in some information and images
of the Argyle Theatre, he writes:-
'D
ennis Clarke, who ran the Theatre
in the first half of the 20th Century, had three sons, two of which
- Tom and Gerrard - ran the Argyle Theatre for Youth from the dressing
room complex of the Theatre that survived the blitz.
Right
- A Poster for the Theatre For Youth production of 'Alice in Wonderland'
(from the Argyle Theatre, Birkenhead) in 1957. - Courtesy Geoff Unwin,
who played the white rabbit, with his future wife Judy Vague, who played
Alice.
It was a traveling fit-up theatre which I joined in 1957
for a production of Alice in Wonderland, touring schools all over the
British Isles. (I played the white rabbit and Judy Vague - a great niece
of Hollywood's Vera Vague - played Alice.)
Uncle Tom, as we called him often told us stories of his
childhood in the Theatre. He remembered the first movies being shown
there on a huge white linen sheet which was suspended from the ceiling
in the centre of the Theatre. Firemen sprayed water on it in order for
those on both sides of the screen to view the hazy images. No-one complained
about the water running down the isles apparently!
Left - Poster for the Theatre For Youth production
of 'David Copperfield' in 1957 - Courtesy Geoff Unwin, who appeared
as David Copperfield, playing opposite Judy Vague who doubled as Emily
and Mrs McCawber.
In
1949 Tom Clarke bought a job-lot of costumes from Tom Arnold and these
were used in his touring productions as well as being hired out to other
companies. I remember 'uncle Tom' opening a locked door in the rabbit
warren of dressing rooms to let us look out into the ruin of the Theatre.
It was open to the sky and still contained huge mounds of bricks which
had been left there since the war. This was in 1957, I don't think it would be allowed today.
Right - The auditorium of the Argyle Theatre in ruins
after being hit by a bomb in 1940. - From the Liverpool Echo. - Courtesy
Geoff Unwin.
The Theatre for Youth continued into the 1970's. In the
early 1980's the Argyle pub (shown below), attached to the Theatre,
was condemned as 'unsafe' and in danger of collapse and was finally
demolished along with the remains of the Theatre.
Today there is no sign of there ever having been such
a wonderful Theatre with its own adjoining pub ever having existed on
the barren space which is now a car park.'
- Text courtesy Geoff
Unwin.
I'm told by a former member of the company, Sarah Golding, that in the 1960s the contract for newcomers to the Argyle Theatre for Youth made them agree to return to the Argyle if they should become famous, and under the same terms as the original contract. Apparently this was agreed to by all except Sir Harry Lauder.
Paul O'Grady on
the Argyle Theatre
I
grew up in Birkenhead and Fred, our next door
neighbour, used to be the stage doorman at The Argyle before it was
bombed. Even though I was very young I can remember him showing me the
signing in books filled with the signatures of a variety of stars who
had played there, everyone from Chaplin to Morecambe and Wise. I've
no idea what happened to it as Fred died over 50 years ago but I'd love
to have a proper look at it now I'm of an age to appreciate its history.
I vividly remember standing with my Ma at the bus stop outside the
post office opposite the Argyle on the day they finally demolished it
to make way for that beautiful car park. The workmen had found a
song
sheet
and were holding it up, one of them with a piece of wood pointing
out the lyrics as everyone standing at the bus stop joined them in a
chorus of 'You mustn't miss the last bus home', although being a callous
teenager at the time I was mortified at the sight of my mother 'making
a show of herself'.
The
Argyle pub was like stepping back in time with a fire burning in the
grate and unchanged since the photo on this site was taken (shown right).
Each time my Uncle Al was on shore leave from the merchant navy he drank
in there with his cronies and I knew that he'd always sling you a couple
of bob if I went in to say 'hello' on my way home from school. I don't
recall ever seeing any women in there, just men drinking pints of mild
and smoking Woodbines as they studied the racing pages.
Right - A Postcard of the Argyle Pub circa 1939. The pub was part
of the Argyle Theatre building and remained standing and open for business
after the Theatre's Auditorium took a direct hit in 1940. In the 1980's
The Argyle pub was condemned as 'unsafe' and in danger of collapse and
was subsequently demolished - Courtesy Geoff Unwin.
I was doing some research for a documentary I was making about Gypsy
Rose Lee and discovered that Burlesque actually originated in Birkenhead
and at
The Theatre Royal
. In
1868
Lydia Thompson took 'Ixion', the play they'd performed on opening night
at The Royal, to Broadway and caused a sensation, touring the country
for years. She'd married Alexander Henderson and together with a bevy
of beefy chorines she cleverly promoted the troupe as 'Lydia Thompson
and her British Blondes'.
She died in London in
1908
leaving a daughter Zeffie Tilbury (now there's a name) who became a
legit Hollywood actress. Lydia and her girls are frequently credited
as being responsible for the birth of what is known as The Great American
ArtForm, Burlesque but it's interesting to think that the residents
of Birkenhead got to see it first.
The above text was kindly sent in by Paul O'Grady in November 2015.
A 1928 Variety Programme for the Argyle
Theatre, Birkenhead
Above - The Cover and Bill from an Argyle Theatre
Variety Programme for April 30th 1928
A 1940 Variety Programme for the Argyle
Theatre, Birkenhead
Above - An Argyle Theatre Variety Programme for July
the 22nd 1940 - Very Kindly donated by Mrs Maureen Shakeshaft.
The Hippodrome,
Grange Road, Birkenhead
Formerly - Ohmy’s Grand Circus
/ The Gaiety Music Hall / The Metropole Theatre
Above - The Hippodrome, Birkenhead from a period
postcard - Courtesy Maurice Friedman,
British
Music hall Society.
T
he
Hippodrome Theatre on Grange Road, Birkenhead opened on the 7th December
of
1908
and was the final incarnation
of a series of entertainment buildings on this site since
1888
.
Originally on the site was a building called Ohmy’s
Grand Circus. Joseph Ohmy had previously run a wooden Circus building
on Conway Street since the 1880s but this new building on Grange Road,
paid for by Ohmy and others, was also used as a Theatre.
Right - A close up view of the postcard of Grange Road
shown below, the white building at centre shows the Birkenhead Hippodrome
- Courtesy Maurice Friedman,
British
Music hall Society
The license for the new building was granted on December
20th
1888
and the Theatre /
Circus subsequently opened to the public.
Ohmy's plans for the building however, were not a success
and by
1890
he had left and Eric
Brammell had taken over, renaming the building the Gaiety Music Hall.
Above - An advertisement for Francis Laidler's Superlative
Revue 'Glad Eyes' at the Hippodrome Theatre, Birkenhead - From a programme
for the
Argyle Theatre
, Birkenhead in April 1928.
Although this was more successful, by
1898
yet another new owner had moved into the building, W. W. Kelly, who
changed the name to the Metropole Theatre and used it for touring productions
of plays and melodramas.
Ten years later the building was bought by the De Frece
Circuit in
1908
and substantial
alterations were carried out.
The Theatre reopened as the Hippodrome on the 7th of December
1908 with a larger stage, electric lighting, and a fully refurbished
auditorium and front of house areas.
In
1916
the Hippodrome
Theatre was taken over by the then owner of the
Argyle
Theatre,
Dennis J Clarke.
Above - Grange Road, Birkenhead, the Hippodrome can just be seen
to the far left, (see close up above right) - Courtesy Maurice Friedman,
British
Music hall Society
In 1932 the Theatre was converted for Cine Variety
use with a large screen using a back projection system. The Hippodrome
reopened on the 31st of October with non stop Cine Variety shows starting
at 2.30 in the afternoon and running until 10.30 in the evening. The
first night consisted of a showing of 'Murders in the Rue Morgue'
and a
Variety
show on stage with the Lupessu
Sisters, The 2 Arthurs, Billy Barr, Tom Fagan, the Rigoletto Trio,
and Wensley and Dale.
Sadly, even this was not to last and on the 5th of March
1934 the Theatre began its last week of live shows, aptly titled 'Evening
Follies' (
see programme below
).
Above - A programme for 'Evening Follies' at the
Birkenhead Hippodrome for the week of the 5th of March 1934 - Courtesy
Robin Lucas. This was the last show at the Hippodrome before it was
demolished.
On the 10th of March 1934 the Birkenhead Hippodrome
closed its doors for the last time and the Theatre was then demolished
and the site was used for a department store by the Birkenhead and
District Co-operative Society.
Some of the above information was gleaned from the
Wirral History website
here
where you will also find some nice archive images for the Theatre.
If you have any more information or images for this Theatre that you are willing to share please
Contact me
.
The Theatre Royal,
51 Argyle Street, Birkenhead
Later - The
Scala Picture House / Scala Cinema/ Savoy Cinema / ABC
Above - A Google StreetView Image of the ABC / Savoy Cinema, Birkenhead, formerly the site of the Theatre Royal / Scala Picture House -
Click
to Interact.
T
he Theatre Royal was situated on Argyle Street, Birkenhead and was designed by the architect L. Hornblower,
of
Liverpool
and Birkenhead. The Theatre opened on Monday the 31st of October
1864
with a production of the one act comedy 'The Handsome Husband', the
burlesque 'Ixion, or the Man at the Wheel' with Lydia Thompson, and
the farce 'Turn Him Out'. The Theatre was run on its opening by Mr.
Henderson, who was also the lessee of the
Prince
of Wales Theatre, Liverpool
at the time, now the
Liverpool
Empire
.
The main frontage of the Theatre Royal was on Argyle Street, where
the box and pit entrances were. The Theatre's auditorium, which was decorated
by the local firm J. and W. Jeffery, was constructed on three levels, Stalls
and Pit, Dress Circle, Gallery, and boxes, and had a capacity stated
at the time of being anywhere from 1,600 to 1,850 people, even '2,300
at a crush.'
The Daily News reported on the opening of the Theatre
in their November the 1st
1864
edition saying:- 'The new theatre erected by a joint stock company at Birkenhead was
opened last night, when Miss Lydia Thompson and a powerful company appeared
in Mr. Burnand's burlesque, Ixion, and other entertainments. The building
is sufficiently large to accommodate about 1,600 persons, and the seats
are large and comfortable. The front of the theatre faces Conway-street,
one of the principal thoroughfares of the town, and the approach to
the pit and boxes is through a handsome corridor. (
Note: the article here says that the Theatre fronted Conway Street but this an error as the Theatre was actually situated on Argyle Street M.L.
)
The stage, which is of amply convenient size, is fitted with extensive
mechanical apparatus, and furnished with a liberal stock of excellent
scenery
. Mr. Dalby, who
is locally celebrated as a scenic artist, has painted a charming act-drop.
The decorations of the proscenium, the dress and gallery circles, and
the ceiling are light, chaste, and artistic, gold mouldings on delicate
tintings forming the prominent feature of ornamentation. The anterooms
for refreshments and promenade are numerous and roomy, and every device
which care for the convenience of the public could suggest has been
applied in the construction of the building.
Mr. Henderson, the lessee of the
Prince of Wales Theatre, Liverpool
,
has taken the house for the first six months, and announces a series
of performances of high-class character and interest. Ixion, Mr. Burnand's
popular burlesque, has been produced, Miss Lydia Thompson sustaining
the principal character. Mr. E. A. Sothern will perform during the week;
Mr. J. L. Warner, the Australian tragedian, is engaged for a series
of representations; and other "stars" are in reserve. A local
pantomime
, by Mr. Charles Milward, will
be produced at Christmas.
The management of the
Prince
of Wales Theatre
gives grounds for high expectations as to that
of the Birkenhead Theatre; and it is confidently believed that the large
population of the borough and adjoining townships will practically appreciate
the first effort made on an extended scale to give them entertainments
of a high order.'
The above text in quotes was first published in the Daily News, November 1st
1864.
T
he Liverpool Mercury also reported on the opening
of the Theatre Royal, Birkenhead, in their 1st of November
1864
edition saying:- 'The inauguration of this beautiful theatre, which as been erected
in Argyle-street, Birkenhead, took place last evening under most favourable
circumstances. Birkenhead has now become a large and prosperous place,
with a busy population of upwards of 40,000 ; and if we take the surrounding
districts, the inhabitants will number about 40,000. The want of a first-class
theatre was long felt in the locality, there being no regular place
of amusement to which the residents could resort without crossing the
river to
Liverpool
. All
this involved great loss of time, to say nothing of the inconvenience
and discomfort experienced during the winter season and in foggy weather.
The result was that a large class, especially ladies and delicate persons,
remained at home, and were thus debarred from participating in those
innocent and instructive entertainments afforded to their neighbours
on the Liverpool side. It was not to be expected that a town like Birkenhead
- a town which has grown from a mere village to be one of the most important
places in the kingdom within the memory even of young men - should long
remain without its theatre. Birkenhead was one of the first towns in
the country to adopt the Free Libraries Act, and the handsome structure
which was opened last year in Hamilton-street reflects credit upon the
enterprise of its inhabitants. With the incentive given to the study
of literature by the opening of the Free Library, it was only natural,
then, that there should also be erected in the township a suitable building
in which the Plays of Shakspeare and other illustrious authors might
be performed.
The subject had long engaged the attention of some of the leading gentlemen
of the place. At last a company was organised, of which Dr. J. M. Craig
was appointed chairman, and the land in Argyle-street was purchased.
.Mr. L. Hornblower, of
Liverpool
and Birkenhead, was engaged as architect, and it is only fair to that
gentleman to state that he has produced as handsome and pretty a theatre
as there is to be found in the country.
In giving a brief description of the building, we may state that it
is capable of seating comfortably 1,850 people, and in a crush about
2,300. The theatre proper is thrown to the rear of the land abutting
in Henry-street. Every attention has been given to secure ready ingress
and egress. The box and pit entrances are in the centre of the Argyle-street
facade, and are 12 feet each in width, the box-office being placed at
the end of the corridors and dividing the two entrances.
Messrs. J. and W. Jeffery, of Compton House, in this town, have supplied
the whole of the decorations, which are exceedingly handsome. The
scenery
has been painted by Mr. Dalby, a well-known artist, and the greater
portion of it is splendidly executed. The proscenium is remarkably elegant,
the work of decoration being carried out in excellent taste.
In accepting Mr. A. Henderson, of the
Prince
of Wales Theatre in this town
(Liverpool M.L.),
as the lessee
of the new theatre, the company evinced sound judgment. Mr. Henderson,
by his spirited and able management of the Prince of Wales Theatre,
has earned for himself a high reputation in the theatrical world, and
no doubt his management of the Theatre Royal, Birkenhead, will be equally
as successful as it has been on this side of the Mersey.
But we must now come to the opening of the new theatre. Long before
seven o'clock there was a great crush of people eager to obtain admittance,
and a long line of carriages, filled with the principal gentry of the
township and neighbourhood, was drawn up in front of the principal entrance
in Argyle-street. The house was brilliantly lighted, and the large number
of ladies in the dress circle and boxes added greatly to the splendour
of the scene. The building was crowded. Amongst the company were Mr.
John Laird, M.P., and party ; Mr. W. Jackson, M.P., and party ; Mr.
Charles Mosley, mayor of
Liverpool
; Mr. B. Mozley, Mr. L. B. Mozley, Mr. Gaskill, Dr. Craig, Mr. R. B.
Moore, Mr. Councillor Melia-dew, Mr. J. Enthoven, Mr. Hancock. Mr. T.
E. Hignett, Captain Hookey, Major Hornblower, Captain Campbell, Captain
Horner, Mr. Capel Cmwood, &c.
Messrs. Hime and Son, of the music warehouse, Argyle-street, have the
direction of the letting of the seats in the dress circle and boxes;
and the refreshment department, of which there is ample provision, is
under the management of Mr. James Griffiths, so well known for his excellent
catering at the refreshment rooms at the
Prince
of Wales Theatre
.
An overture having been capitally played by a good band, under the
direction of Mr. Connolly, from the
Queen's
Theatre, Dublin
, the curtain rose, and the whole of the company
appeared upon the stage in evening dress. The members of it joined in
singing the National Anthem as solo, quartet, and chorus, the audience
rising en masse as the band commenced the well-known strains.
On the termination of the anthem Miss Sidney Cowell sang the song "God
bless the Prince of Wales" very prettily, and received the approving
plaudits of the audience. Mr. Henderson, the lessee, then stepped forward
and delivered an appropriate address, written for the occasion by Mr.
William Brough. The lessee met with a genial reception, was repeatedly
cheered during the delivery of his address, and called before the curtain
at the close. Owing to the crowded state of the house the address will
again be spoken tonight; we therefore do not publish it in this day's
impression. As Mr. Henderson retired the green curtain was drawn up,
and there was then displayed to the view of the audience an act drop,
one of the moat charming specimens of the scene painter's art ever seen
within the walls of a theatre. It is a landscape, and for loveliness
of design, delicacy of execution, and artistic finish could not be well
surpassed.
The performances commenced with the amusing little comedy, in one act,
called " The Handsome Husband." Mr. E. Price, a favourite
with the frequenters of the
Prince
of Wales Theatre
, an excellent actor, and Mr. Alfred Nelson, the
stage manager, played the characters of Mr. Wyndham and Henry Eitzlierbert
spiritedly, and Miss Agnes Ryder ably enacted the part of Mr. Wyndham.
Miss Lewis's Mrs. Twisden did her credit, and Miss Nellie Nesbitt represented
the Hon. Mrs. Metford gracefully.
The audience were so much gratified with the efforts of the ladies
and gentlemen taking part in the comedy that they were called for on
the fall of the curtain. The most prominent feature of the evening's
entertainment was Mr. Burnand's celebrated burlesque "Ixion, or
the Man at the Wheel." For this representation Mr. Dalby has furnished
some magnificent
scenery
.
Some of the "sets" are on an elaborate scale, and are highly
effective. The costumes are also appropriate and of the richest and
most picturesque description. The cast includes the whole of the stock
company, with that remarkably popular burlesque actress Miss Lydia Thompson
as Ixion. The reception accorded her was perfectly enthusiastic. The
moment she made her appearance in the first scene there was an outburst
of applause from all parts of the house, and it was again and again
repeated. The lady plays the character assigned to her with singular
vivacity, and dances to perfection. Miss Mary Huddart makes up admirably
as Jupiter, and her acting and tuneful singing entitle her to a few
words of praise. Mr. Searle endeavours to throw as much humour as possible
into his personation of Minerva, and Mr. A. Nelson to make as much as
he can of Ganyrnede. Miss Cowell is a charming Cupid, and Miss C. Elton
shows considerable ability as Juno. The delivery of the speech in the
scene where Jupiter holds court was decidedly commendable. Miss Ada
Coates (Apollo) and Miss Nellie Nesbit (Venus) appear to advantage in
their respective parts. There is a very pretty ballet, in which the
accomplished and graceful French
danseuse
Mad'lle Ida Idalie
appears. The incidental music is well sung, and the dances generally
are given with enlivening effect.
The programme concluded with the mirth-inspiring farce called "Turn
Him Out,' the characters in which were sustained in a manner that left
little to be desired. The greater part of the audience remained until
the close, all appeared to enjoy the amusement provided for them, and
the directors and the lessee may justly be congratulated upon the success
attending the first performance in the Theatre Royal, Birkenhead.'
The above text in quotes was first published in the Liverpool Mercury, 1st of November
1864.
T
he Theatre Royal first opened on Monday the 31st of October
1864
with a production of the one act comedy 'The Handsome Husband', the
burlesque 'Ixion, or the Man at the Wheel' with Lydia Thompson, and
the farce 'Turn Him Out'.
Arthur Lloyd
is known to have
performed here some years later in
1890
and again in
1891
.
The Theatre was closed for a while after it was damaged by fire in
1892,
and then again closed for alterations in
1905
. And the Theatre eventually closed as a live Theatre altogether after the last performance of the play 'Romance' on the 8th of January 1921, this time for reconstruction for Cinema use.
The Theatre's new owners Sol and Alfred Levy then converted the Theatre into a 976 seat Cinema called the Scala Picture House which opened on the 25th of April 1921. The conversion included fitting a rear projection room into the Theatre's former stage, and redecorating the auditorium in the Greek Revival Style. Also included was a Theatre Organ and a cafe for its patrons.
Above - The Lobby of the Scala Picture House, Birkenhead, formerly the Theatre Royal, dressed for its Armistice Day matinee for ex-service men and members of the British Legion. Manager Baker (standing) is seen shaking hands with one of the guests - From the Bioscope, 18th of November 1931.
The Scala was taken over by ABC in February 1930, who closed the Theatre briefly for redecorations. It was reopened two weeks later as the Scala Cinema. However, it was not to be in business for much longer as ABC would close the Cinema on the 6th of February 1937 for demolition and rebuilding as their new 2,100 seat Savoy Cinema which opened on the 10th of October 1938.
Above - A Google StreetView Image of the ABC / Savoy Cinema, Birkenhead, formerly the site of the Theatre Royal / Scala Picture House -
Click
to Interact.
T
he Savoy Cinema was designed by
W. R. Glen
and was much larger than its predecessor. The Theatre included a stage for live performances but this was rarely used. In the early 1960s the Theatre was renamed ABC and because it was so huge the balcony was eventually closed and left unused.
The ABC was closed as a Cinema in March 1982 and it was then converted into a Snooker Hall. Later conversion saw the Theatre's former Balcony being converted into a Gym, but at the time of writing in October 2017 the whole building was closed and up for sale.
Some of the later history for this Theatre was gleaned from the excellent Cinema Treasures website who have some very nice images of the Savoy Cinema
here
.
If you have any more information or images for this Theatre that you are willing to share please
Contact me
.
The Claughton
Music Hall, Claughton Road and Atherton Street, Birkenhead
Later - Claughton Picture House /
Astor Cinema / Astor Tombola Club
T
he Claughton Music Hall was situated on the
corner of Claughton Road and Atherton Street in Birkenhead. The building
was designed by the architect Walter Scott, of
Liverpool
and Birkenhead, and constructed by John Hogarth of Rock Ferry at a cost
of £4,000. The Claughton Music Hall opened on the 15th of January
1862
and is said to have been
able to seat 600 people.
The Liverpool Mercury reported on the Claughton's opening in their
16th of January
1862
edition
saying:- 'The opening of the splendid new
Music
Hall
erected at the corner of Claughton-road and Atherton-street,
Birkenhead, took place last evening, under most auspicious circumstances.
The event was celebrated by a ball, the proceeds of which, through the
liberality and laudable spirit of the directors, were appropriated to
the funds of the Birkenhead Hospital.
The new Music Hall has a frontage to Claughton road of 52 feet, and
to Atherton-street of 112 feet, and, from its elevated and commanding
situation, has a very imposing appearance. There are four principal
entrances - two to Claughton-road, one to Atherton street, and one for
the musicians, officials, &c., - communicating with the different
parts of the building.
A covered porch, approached by a bold flight of steps, leads to a
vestibule on either side communicating with the entrance hall and grand
staircase, the latter consisting of a double flight, moat elaborately
got up, the banisters being of iron, of a beautiful pattern, with the
monogram “B.M.H." Interlaced in the foliage. These lead to
the upper hall or ante-room leading to the great hall, which is approached
by two magnificent doors, of a great height, richly worked.
The great hall, which is decorated in an exceedingly chaste and elegant
manner, and is lighted by three sun burners of 63 lights each, is 75
feet long (exclusive of the orchestra) 48 feet wide, and 40 feet in
height. The orchestra is raised, and will accommodate 50 of a chorus
and 35 musicians, in addition to the pianist and principal singers in
front.
Midway in the entrance hall is a lofty and wide corridor leading to
the supper room, which is 48 feet by 30 feet, and of proportionate height.
On either side of the corridor are cloakrooms, each supplied with lavatories,
&c. There are four rooms for the accommodation of performers, each
being fitted up with every convenience.
The exterior of the building is bold, and richly interspersed with
carvings in medallions and on the keystones. One appropriate feature
is that the medallions, &c., are cut with busts of some of the moat
eminent musical composers - Handel, Mozart, Mendelssohn, Beethoven,
and Donizetti being amongst the number.
The building is warmed by an apparatus on Dr. Arnott's principle, supplied
by Mr. Gibbs, of Lime-street, and the decorations are the work of Mr.
Dawson, of this town. The furnishings and upholstery, which are all
of a very superior description, were supplied by Messrs. George Woods
and Co„ of Bold-street.
We may state that the design of the new building was selected out of
16 competitors, and that the architect was restricted to the sum of
£4000, which included the lighting and heating, the decorations,
&c. Mr. Walter Scott, of Liverpool and Birkenhead, was the architect,
and Mr. John Hogarth, of Rock Ferry, the builder, both of whom deserve
the highest credit for producing such an exceedingly handsome structure.
The company, also, cannot be too highly praised for their public spirit
and enterprise in providing what has been long wanted in Birkenhead
- a commodious and elegant music hall.
The ball last night was a complete success. The company numbered about
400, and included the elite of Birkenhead and neighbourhood. The lady
patronesses were Mrs. Septimus Ledward, Mrs, P. Callender, Mrs. Horner,
Mrs. V. A. King, Mrs. Parsons, and Mrs. Sim. The company included Mr.
Thomas Brassey, jun., the late Liberal candidate for the new borough,
Lieutenant-Colonel and Mrs. King, Mr. and Mrs. John Ravenscroft, Mr.
and Mrs. George Harrison, Mr. and Mrs. H. K. Aspinall, Captain William
Laird, Captain H. H. Laird, &c.
Streather's band occupied the orchestra. Danoing commenced at eight
o'clock, and was kept up in a spirited manner until an early hour this
morning. The refreshments, which were of the most
recherche
description,
were provided by Mr. Moorish, of the Merchants' Dining Rooms in this
town, whose catering gave the greatest satisfaction.'
The above text in quotes was first published in the Liverpool Mercury,
16th of January
1862
.
T
he Claughton Music Hall opened on the 15th of
January
1862
and ran as such
until it was eventually converted for Cinema use in
1912
.
An organ was installed in the Music Hall by William & Frank Hall
of Rock Ferry in
1882
, and
Oscar Wilde is said to have given a lecture there in
1883
.
On its conversion for Cinema use in
1912
the Cinema News and Property Gazette of August
1912
said that the new Claughton Picture House Company Ltd was registered
with a capital of £1,000 in £1 shares. The Directors of
this enterprise were A. Levy, Managing Director, J. Auerbach, and H.
G. Auerbach, whose registered office was 3, Mitchell Place,
Liverpool
.
Cinema then ran in the building under the Claughton Picture House name
from
1912
, with seating for
800 people, until it was taken over by Woodhill Entertainment in 1952
and renamed the Astor Cinema. In 1956 the Cinema was redecorated and
reopened as a Continental Cinema, but this venture was not a success
and the Cinema was soon closed. The building was then bought by Harry
Rogers who reopened it in 1957 as the Astor Tombola Club, which would
be Birkenhead’s first Bingo Hall. Bingo then ran there until it
was closed in 1981. The building was subsequently demolished the following
year in 1982.
If you have any more information or images for this Theatre that you are willing to share please
Contact me
.
Other Theatres
and Cinemas in Birkenhead
O
ther Theatres and Cinemas in Birkenhead
over the years were The King's Theatre, which was built in
1908
but now long gone; and the Ritz Cinema, of which an archive film of
the Royal Film Performance there in 1949 can be viewed
here
.
You may also be interested in
this
page
on the Wirral History website.
If you have any more information or images for this Theatre that you are willing to share please
Contact me
.
Archive newspaper reports on this page were collated
and kindly sent in for inclusion by
B.F
.