Credit: The Alexandra
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The Alexandra has stood on Suffolk Queensway since 1901. That’s the same year that Queen Victoria died, Australia gained independence, and the vacuum cleaner was invented. An interesting year, indeed. Now, 125 years later, the historic Birmingham theatre opens its doors for a free family-friendly celebration this May.
In between productions of The Ballad of Johnny and June and Single White Female, The Alexandra opens up on a ‘dark day’ to give you a rare chance to explore behind the scenes when the theatre is usually closed to the public. The Anniversary Open Day is during Bank Holiday Weekend on Saturday, May 2, from 11am to 3pm.
Previous open days by the theatre have been popular among visitors, describing how “it was exciting to be on the stage and even more exciting to be backstage to understand what goes on behind the scenes.” Uncover The Alexandra theatre’s rich archives, alongside craft activities, face painting and behind-the-scenes experiences.
“Our wonderful theatre is 125 years old this May and I’m really excited to welcome visitors to our Open Day to take a close look at programmes and memorabilia from our archives, some of it nearly 100 years old,” said Venue Historian, Julia Kirby. “Backstage tours will offer visitors the chance to find out more about the history of The Alex as well as finding out how we work our theatre magic.”
Artist and designer, Garry Jones, will lead craft sessions, while there will also be technical demonstrations in flying, lighting and sound. Not only that, but exclusive ticket offers will be available at the Box Office, and the Holiday Inn in Birmingham is running a ‘kids eat free’ offer for attendees to The Alexandra.
The free Anniversary Open Day on Saturday, May 2, is to mark The Alexandra’s 125th anniversary, ahead of a big birthday year of celebrations.