Playhouse, Sleaford

The Playhouse in Sleaford is a Grade II listed Georgian theatre built in 1820. It stands in the market town of Sleaford in Lincolnshire. After serving as a school and other uses, it reopened as a theatre in 2000. The building began life as a theatre for Joseph Close Smedley, a lawyer-turned-theatre-manager. His family often appeared on stage with him. Smedley managed theatres across Lincolnshire and nearby counties. The Playhouse has a rich theatrical past. It hosted plays, operas, concerts and magic shows in the 19th century. Performers included the ‘Great Wizard of the South’ and Harriet Waylett, known as the ‘Queen of the English ballad’. Lectures and temperance festivals also took place there. The building later became Sleaford’s first infant school before its restoration as a theatre. Today’s visitor finds a working theatre in a restored Georgian building. The interior reflects its original purpose while meeting modern needs. Performances range from plays to music and comedy. The Playhouse remains a cultural hub in Sleaford. Its history is visible in the architecture and programme.