About this Event
The Priory Theatre Company gave its first performance, as the Kenilworth Players, on 13th January 1932 on a portable stage in the old Abbey Hotel Ballroom. After six productions, the Players disbanded in 1939 leaving their stage and equipment in a timber yard near the centre of Coventry where miraculously, most of it survived the war.
Late in 1945 work began on converting a disused Chapel (built in 1816) into a Theatre as a permanent home for the newly reformed Players. Using the original stage equipment and timber from the cases which housed aircraft being convoyed across the Atlantic during the war, a stage and raked auditorium were built and the Priory Theatre opened on 8th April 1946.
Work continued to improve the Theatre. In 1947, the rear of the stage was extended. In 1951 the Dress Circle was built, upholstered seating installed throughout and by the summer of 1952 there was a kitchen and two first floor Dressing Rooms. By 1965 the stage had been extended once again to more than double its original depth and a new foyer built at the front of the building.
A ‘Graduate Section’ had been in existence in the early 1950’s, but it was not until 1967 that the ‘Young Stagers’ were formed to encompass the talents and enthusiasm of the young people who had appeared in a major production that year. Now called the Priory Youth Theatre, they are a flourishing part of the Theatre, contributing to Main Theatre productions as well as staging major productions.
In 1968, the Kenilworth Players became the Priory Theatre Company and in 1972 gained admission to the Little Theatre Guild of Great Britain. By 1974 a Lounge Bar had replaced the Dressing Room off the Circle Foyer.
But on 4th September 1976 came the destruction of thirty years work when fire gutted the Theatre. Undaunted, the members set about the rebuilding, making great improvements to all areas, especially the back stage facilities. Four full scale productions were staged at local Amateur and Professional Theatres while rebuilding continued and the Gala Re-opening took place on 28th September 1978.
One year later, the Company was hosting its first Little Theatre Guild of Great Britain National Conference and welcoming delegates from all over the country to a packed weekend of activity.
Still to this day many people still attend the priory theatre including visitors to seek the many reports of paranormal activity. We dare you to join us on a ghost hunt at this former chapel, the theatre still has a crypt that is awaiting you to investigate the strange goings on at this location.
Many have reported strange noises and foot steps and shadows moving around the many of the areas in this location and many past paranormal investigations have encountered an oppressive energy.
- Work in smaller and more personal groups
- Take part in a variety of activities such as Seances and more
- Access to ghost hunting equipment such as K-II, trigger objects, ghost meters, EDI’s etc.
- Opportunities to conduct lone vigils for those feeling brave
- A friendly and experienced team of investigators offering help and advice throughout the night
- Qualified first aider present
- Tea, coffee, cordial and biscuits included in the cost
Not suitable for wheelchair users or for people with walking difficulties or mobility issues.
All attendees must be aged 18 years or over
Not suitable for pregnant ladies
Flat gripped footwear must be worn no heels.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Priory Theatre, Rosemary Hill, Kenilworth, United Kingdom
GBP 38.62
