3 min readAs the Redgrave Theatre approaches its 60th anniversary, we asked the team to tell us more about the history behind this much-loved venue...
Hidden away in the beautiful suburb of Clifton, the Redgrave Theatre is one of Bristol’s most popular and distinctive performance spaces.
With its tiered 320-seat auditorium and flat stage, the theatre offers an intimate setting with excellent sightlines and acoustics. It hosts a wide variety of productions, including opera, musical theatre, stand-up comedy, drama and dance.
Origins and early years
Built in 1966 by Clifton College, the theatre was originally known as the Clifton College Theatre. Its traditional proscenium-arch design was inspired by London’s Mermaid Theatre, and it was one of the first purpose-built school theatres in the country. The building was officially opened by the celebrated actor Sir Michael Redgrave, a former pupil of the College. Following his death in 1985, the theatre was renamed the Redgrave Theatre in his honour.
Image - Auditorium of the Redgrave Theatre in 1966.
The first production staged in the theatre by Clifton College pupils was Love’s Labour’s Lost by William Shakespeare, performed in December 1966. An archival image from this production captures a remarkable moment in the theatre’s early history.
Another significant early production was Macbeth in 1969, performed by members of staff. This production featured J. W. Hersee in the title role. Hersee was the begetter of the theatre and its first appointed Master-in-Charge, and his involvement marked an important chapter in the Redgrave’s development.
Image - Production of Macbeth in Redgrave Theatre in 1969.
A theatre for the city
Originally used exclusively for Clifton College events, the theatre’s role expanded in the 1970s when it began welcoming local amateur dramatic groups during school holidays. This decision helped establish the Redgrave as a valued cultural venue within the wider Bristol community.
Since then, the theatre’s reputation has continued to grow. Today, alongside long-standing amateur groups, the Redgrave hosts professional touring companies, comedians, film societies, music concerts and dance productions.
Many Old Cliftonians have fond memories of performing on the Redgrave stage, whether in House plays or school productions. For some, these early experiences marked the beginning of highly distinguished careers in the performing arts, including John Cleese, Simon Russell Beale CBE, Trevor Howard, Simon Shepherd, Neil Foster, and Clive and David Swift.
Image - Auditorium of the Redgrave Theatre in 2024. Credit; Dave Pratt Photography.
Looking Ahead: 60 Years in 2026
As the Redgrave Theatre approaches its 60th anniversary in 2026, plans are underway to celebrate both its rich heritage and its future. A series of fundraising initiatives is currently in development to help secure the long-term future of the theatre, with more details to be shared in the coming months.
The centrepiece production for 2026 will be Dick Whittington, the theatre’s first fully in-house pantomime. This marks an exciting milestone, enabling the Redgrave to deliver a genuinely Bristol-focused production that celebrates the city while creating new creative opportunities for local artists.
The anniversary year has also included the launch of their very own Youth Theatre, designed to nurture the next generation of performers for ages 7-14.
“As the Redgrave marks 60 years, having a youth theatre is a significant step for us to reaffirm our commitment to being a space for our community. This venue has long been a great working and learning environment, and we are delighted to be opening our doors to our youngest creative minds so they can fall in love with all aspects of the performing arts.” — Sue Ellicott, Theatre Manager
Join in and celebrate six decades of performance, creativity and community at the Redgrave Theatre. Follow them on social media @RedgraveTheatre to keep up to date with events, initiatives and shows marking their 60th anniversary in 2026.
For more information, visit redgravetheatre.com
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