THE OLD REP THEATRE
A brief history
The Old Rep Theatre opened its doors in 1913, the first purpose-built repertory theatre in Birmingham and the original home of the Birmingham Repertory Company, founded by Sir Barry Jackson. Its first production was Shakespeare’s TWELTH NIGHT.
Sir Barry Jackson was born into a wealthy grocer’s family in 1879 and founded the Pilgrim Players in 1907. He then went on to build the Repertory Theatre in Station Street.
Over the years, The Old Rep launched the careers of some of the greats of British acting, including, Sir Laurence Olivier, Julie Christie, Paul Schofield, Derek Jacobi, Dame Peggy Ashcroft, Albert Finney, Sir Ralph Richardson and Dame Edith Evans, all of whom went on to star in numerous plays, films and television dramas.
The theatre is a Grade 2 listed building, with an auditorium that seats 260 in the stalls and 123 in the balcony. It has a traditional proscenium arch, flying facilities and excellent lighting and sound systems. Backstage it has 8 dressing rooms spread over two floors and a Green Room. The pit can seat up to 9 musicians and the Musical Director.
In 1971, the Birmingham Repertory Company moved to a larger, purpose-built theatre in Broad Street and renamed as The Rep. The Old Rep Theatre was re-launched as a venue for professional and amateur productions and has become the home of the Birmingham Stage Company since 1992.
The BMOS Youtheatre has been performing two shows a year at this fabulous little theatre since 1989.
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