Lancaster Grand

magnifique théâtre de Lancaster, présentant le théâtre, la musique et la danse depuis 1782

The Grand Theatre, under its many names, has been a major part of the social and cultural life of Lancaster since it opened in 1782.

Today, as a result of a continual restoration drive, the theatre is in the best condition it has been since the rebuild in 1908 and now operates as one of the key North West venues for amateur drama, music and dance and professional touring companies.

The Grand is home to Footlights, a thriving amateur drama group which takes a professional approach to its work. We first started performing in the 1920's, and purchased the Grand Theatre in 1951, saving it from demolition.

Ever since that time, it has been a careful balance of time and effort between theatrical productions, and the continuous work involved in running, maintaining and restoring an historic building.

We currently produce five plays per year in the Grand Theatre, including a traditional Christmas pantomime which is specifically aimed family enjoyment and a Family production in the summer.

In addition to the Footlights performances at the Grand, Studio Footlights also stage up to three studio productions per year at other small venues so the range of productions is very wide with something to appeal to every taste.

All members receive a monthly newsletter which keeps them informed of impending productions, auditions, and activities as well as more general news.

Full membership costs just £15 per year for adults and £10 for juniors and students.

We have a large membership, but with a theatre to run, a full season of plays to cast, sets to build, backstage and front-of-house staff to find etc. we are always looking for new faces and fresh ideas and talents. Why not come and join us? You'd be very welcome. The benefits of joining Footlights include:

Receipt of personal copy of the newsletter – Footnote (by email or £6 per annum for a paper copy)

Voting status at the AGM

Great social life of this thriving theatre.

Our Membership Managers are Alison Page and Carol Williamson who is our membership contact for new and existing members.

Carol can be contacted on 01524 734381 or e mail [email protected]

Alison can be contacted at [email protected]

Saturday morning Coffee Bar in the Foyer

Drop in between 10.30 and 12.00 noon for tea, hot chocolate, home made cake and and Atkinson's acclaimed coffee. Non members welcome.

New members

We have a "new members welcome" morning on the first Saturday of each month, when either Carol or Alison will be happy to meet you, show you round and introduce you to other members - please make yourselves known.

Props Hire

We have an extensive store of props and furniture ( not scenery or sets) which we are happy to loan out.

Please call Carol on 01524 734381 for further details