Fancy watching performances in a Victorian theatre which has been kept 'secret' for the past 80 years?
A fundraising campaign has been launched for the restoration of Alexandra Palace's theatre, which opened in 1875 and still has some of the original Victorian mechanics. It has been closed for 80 years, and now there are plans to open it up as a functioning theatre and cinema again.
£1m must be raised by summer 2017, to restore the palace's east wing and BBC studios — in order to reopen the theatre to the public in 2018.
Almost £30m has already been raised for the restoration, including an £18.8m Heritage Lottery Fund grant.
Once the work has been done, the theatre will have a capacity of 1,300 and will also contain a learning zone, cafe and bar. Elsewhere in the building, the BBC studios will be restored, and there are plans for a museum which will explore the part Alexandra Palace has played in the history of popular entertainment.
If you're interested in donating, or want to learn more, head to the Support Alexandra Palace website. Supporters will receive rewards depending on how much they donate, including a credit on the donor board in the restored east court, an exclusive preview tour of the theatre ahead of its public unveiling, or a plaque with your name on one of the retractable seats in the stalls.
