Theatre of Dreams

Paul Palmer — Thu, 13 Feb 2020 14:09:42 +0000

From the ashes of its burned-out predecessor, the Opera House,

Dudley Hippodrome rose and was launched as ‘England’s Most

Modern Variety Theatre.’ It was an appropriate label to be attached

to a breath-taking building which was equipped with state-of-the-art

equipment and lighting, an eye-catching facade in Art Deco style and

luxury, ornate fittings.

More than its elegant structure, however, the theatre was to

bring life and vibrancy to this corner of the Black Country. For more

than three decades, the lives of local folk and many from further

beyond the region’s boundaries were enriched by an array of live

entertainment brought to the stage by stars from around the globe.

Audiences were able to wallow in the endless stream of

performances – from the world of comedy, drama, pantomime and

song. No names were too big to adorn this jewel in Dudley’s crown,

no stone was left unturned by the Hippodrome original

management team, the Kennedy brothers, to bring the stars to the

Castle Hill venue.

The biggest drama was to unfold in its latter years, however, in the

shape of a prolonged fight to preserve the theatre, which was under

constant threat after a sharp decline in attendance, the rising cost

of stars’ fees and the competition from television.

This story of a Theatre of Dreams traces its rise popularity,

celebrates its glory years, shares the memories of performers and

audiences alike and examines its fall from grace. Whatever its fate,

the Hippodrome has left an unforgettable heritage which will

remain a crucial part of Black Country history.

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