Y Theatre

The Y Theatre stands in the heart of Leicester, on East Street. Built in 1900, it is the city’s oldest surviving theatre. The building holds 300 seats and hosts comedy, cabaret, musical and spoken-word performances. It also runs theatre workshops for children and young people. The street outside is lined with shops and cafés, giving the area a lively feel. The theatre’s programme mixes established names with fresh local talent. Its small scale lets performers connect directly with the audience. Over the decades it has become a familiar part of Leicester’s cultural life. The programme changes every few weeks, so visitors never see the same bill twice in a season. Its programme leaflets are designed by art students from De Montfort University. Inside, the auditorium has ornate plasterwork and a curved balcony. The stage is framed by a proscenium arch painted in deep reds and golds. A narrow backstage alley leads to dressing rooms and a cramped green room. From the street, the theatre’s white façade and tall windows make it easy to spot. The foyer still shows signs of its Edwardian origins, with mosaic tiles underfoot.