The word ‘theatre’ is a Greek word which means “viewing place’’. Arts from different genres are performed here. This comes in many forms, like comedy, romance, tragedy, etc.

Theatre is an art form, and it works as a mirror to society. It helps people to express themselves. It helps to develop thoughts and feelings.

As it is a medium to know our history or present comically, we learn many ideas through this. This gives excellent exposure to people and develops human creative skills.

We have studied that theatre had a significant influence on literature. Many literary works were performed in theatres, like: “As You Like It”, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” etc.

The most exciting thing about seeing theatre is that it takes less time than reading books. The theatre is one of the most favorable places for family entertainment. So, we got you if you are looking for the best theatre in Richmond.

Theatre in Richmond     

Richmond is a beautiful borough in the UK. It borders the very famous river, the Thames. The Thames River is very famous, as we’ve heard its name many times in literature. Richmond is renowned for its royal parks, historical buildings, museums, galleries, etc.

Richmond is also famous for its renowned theatres. So, let’s glance at the four best theatres in Richmond.

1. Richmond Theatre

It is one of the best architectures of renowned architect Frank Matcham. Richmond Theatre was opened in the Victorian era in 1899 with the famous Shakespearean play “As You Like It.”

It was initially known as The Theatre Royal and Opera House. This building is listed as Grade II* by Historic England.

The entire theatre looks fantastic. If you are in love with literature, then you must visit this venue once. The interior is beautiful and exciting, as there are four large subject panels inside.

They represent the scenes of “Hamlet,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “King Lear,” and “Romeo and Juliet”.

There is a crucial panel above the proscenium. It shows the inscription by Alexander Pope, ” To wake the soul by tender strokes of art.”

Different events, like operas, musicals, concerts, stand-up comedy, etc., are performed here.

This theatre in Richmond has a capacity of around 850 seats. The seats are very cozy, with enough legroom. You can quickly get food and drinks available inside the theatre. There is also a parking zone outside the theatre.

They welcome a quarter of a million visitors annually. It performs almost 49 weeks every year. It is one of the most admired and successful theatres in the country. Its name is always in people’s heads.

Furthermore, you can get more information about current performances through the website.

Location: Little Green, Richmond TW9 IQJ, UK

Opening times: Time varies according to bookings/ events.

Website: https://www.visitrichmond.co.uk

2. Orange Tree Theatre

Orange Tree Theatre has a fascinating background story. It was founded on 31 December 1971 by a couple. They decided to establish a local and independent cinema.

It was first opened in a small room above The Orange Tree Pub. Then, there were no theatrical facilities. Even there was no artificial lighting. So, the events were performed at lunchtime in the natural daylight.

Its first performance was “Go Tell It On Table Mountain.” They didn’t get any satisfactory response from the audience. But there was a significant transformation in 1975. It got its identity as a licensed theatre, and it was renovated many times.

Later, in 1991, they moved to the current location, which had enough space. The struggle story of this theatre deserves a lot of credit.

This theatre is set in a Victorian Gothic-style building (former school).

Furthermore, this venue has been designed with a circular seating plan. Thus, it looks beautiful. It has a capacity of 180 seats.

This theatre is trendy for reviving old and forgotten plays. It is renowned for its quality drama. This is regarded as London’s only full-time cinema. It got a reputation as a writer’s theatre.

You can quickly get food and drinks inside the theatre. But the only thing to remember is that you must reach the venue a little early as they don’t allow entry after show time.

There is also a parking zone near the theatre. This theatre is one of London’s most exciting venues.

Location: 1 Clarence St. Richmond TW9 2QE, UK

Opening time: It opens one hour before events.

Website: https://www.orangetheatre.co.uk

3. Puppet Theatre Barge

It is exciting to know that Puppet Theatre Barge is the UK’s only floating puppet theatre. Puppetry is one of the most lovable art forms. A group of artists called Movingstage set up this water-borne theatre ( on a boat) in 1979.

This project is still getting stronger year by year. The boat is moved from the Venice Canal to the Thames River in Richmond annually.

The main intention of this group is to foster puppetry as an art form. They intend to keep this tradition vibrant, relevant, and alive.

It has a capacity of 50 seats. It is a fantastic Richmond theatre, especially for children and adults. They perform traditional tales with a modern twist.

Furthermore, they also perform Shakespearean dramas and plays by contemporary writers. Musical events are also organized here.

Hence, you must include this theatre in your list. Furthermore, Richmond parking zones are minimal, especially near Puppet theatres.

So, you will get free parking on River Lane. It will take less than 15 minutes to walk from the venue.

Location: Near 87 Petersham Road, Richmond TW10, 6UT, UK

Website: https://www.puppetbarge.com

4. Oso Arts Centre: The Theatre On Barnes Pond

Oso Arts Centre is a theatre as well as an arts center & cafe. It was founded in 2002. It is primarily considered a ‘Youth Theatre’.

This venue works as an arts center ( for dance, drama, music, etc.) in the daytime and as a theatre in the evening & night.

As we are always in haste, we may not get time for dinner( at home) after the theatre. Hence, this theatre also offers a booking of delicious meals.

You can easily place an order and get healthy and delicious food.

This theatre is very innovative. Furthermore, it aims to support companies at each stage. You get easy access here to flaunt your talents on stage.

The team of this theatre collaborates with local charities and schools. They even provide free tickets to needy families. They also support school students who want to learn art forms.

Location: Barnes, Richmond City, UK

Website: https://www.osoarts.org.uk

Conclusion

In conclusion, this article provides you with the four best theatres and the most famous and popular theatre in Richmond. You are surely going to have unique experiences by visiting these venues. Furthermore, you can visit the given sites for show details. Each Theatre has lined up new shows, which you can see by visiting their website.  

Last Updated on November 17, 2023 by Apeksha Soni