Bacon Theatre

The Bacon Theatre stands on the grounds of Dean Close School in Cheltenham. It is a medium-sized venue designed to host professional performances as well as school events. The building opened in 1991 as The New Theatre, replacing an earlier structure. Its architect, Richard Slawson, also designed the Edwards Building nearby, both featuring distinctive high wooden roofs. The theatre’s foyer, called the Orangery, was named after orange trees once grown there. A Waterford chandelier, marble floor and Steinway grand piano were donated by local supporters. The theatre has a long history of community and cultural events. Its first production was a school staging of *Twelfth Night* in 1991, directed by Peter Cairns. In 1994, the BBC’s *Any Questions?* was broadcast from the stage with panellists including Shirley Williams and Tony Benn. The venue was renamed in 1998 after headmaster Christopher Bacon. Today it hosts professional shows, film screenings and festivals like the Cheltenham Festivals. Visitors find a well-equipped space for theatre, music and dance. The Orangery foyer welcomes guests before performances. The annual Open-air Theatre Festival takes place at the nearby Tuckwell Amphitheatre. Local groups like dance studios and theatre societies regularly use the theatre. Its programme includes ballet, live music and film society screenings from September to April.