Waterside Theatre

The Waterside Theatre stands beside the Stratford Canal in Stratford-upon-Avon, a town known for its links to Shakespeare. The building began as the town’s first cinema before becoming an independent theatre in 1979. Princess Anne opened it on 29 May that year. For many years it housed an audio-visual attraction called The World of Shakespeare. After a period of closure it reopened in December 2004 to host Shakespearience, a visitor experience about the playwright’s life and works. The theatre’s design copies an Elizabethan playhouse, with authentic timber framing like London’s Globe. Famous performers have appeared on its stage, including Judi Dench, Simon Callow and Alistair McGowan. Comedian Robin Ince and the musical act King Pleasure and The Biscuit Boys also took part. Ex-Radio 1 DJ Normski was another name to grace the boards. The building later became the Waterside Space before being transformed into the Clore Learning Centre. Visitors now find a theatre interior arranged like an Elizabethan playhouse. The space hosts educational activities and performances connected to Shakespeare. The canal-side setting remains a quiet spot beside the water. The building’s timbered walls and galleries recall the 16th-century style. The Clore Learning Centre offers programmes for schools and the public. The Stratford Canal provides a peaceful walk just outside the door.