There’s something special about walking into The Kings Theatre. Whether it’s the hush before the show begins, or even the feeling that you’re sitting in an auditorium that has had generations of audiences before you. What we do know is that the stunning building itself quietly holds over a century of stories, and as the 1907 Elevation is underway, it feels like the perfect time to look back.
Where It All Began
The Kings Theatre first opened its doors on 30th September 1907 and was the vision of John W. Boughton, who wanted to create something bold and he was serious.
Built in just 13 months and costing around £34,000 which was a huge sum at the time. The Kings Theatre was designed as a grand touring venue for the biggest shows of the era.
From day one, this wasn’t just a local theatre.
The Architect Behind the Magic: Frank Matcham
It was designed by Frank Matcham, widely regarded as one of the greatest theatre architects Britain has ever produced. Frank Matcham designed over 150 theatres across the UK and fewer than 25 still survive today, making The Kings incredibly rare. Other Famous Matcham Theatres you may have heard of are;
– London Palladium (London)
– Richmond Theatre (London)
– London Hippodrome
At The Kings, Matcham worked a little magic, creating a stunning Edwardian auditorium on an awkward, narrow plot of land.
A Stage for Legends
Over the years, The Kings has welcomed some of the biggest names in entertainment.
Just a few highlights:
– Sarah Bernhardt
– Noël Coward
– Sir Sean Connery
– Morecambe & Wise
– Rex Harrison
– Spike Milligan
– Ivor Novello
And it’s not just theatre. In 1974, the venue became part of film history when The Who and Elton John performed here during filming for Tommy.
Even today, the stage continues to host everything from West End musicals to comedy, opera, and community productions.
A Theatre That Refused to Quit
Like many historic theatres, The Kings has faced its challenges.
– Closed briefly at the start of World War II
– Changed ownership multiple times
– Faced potential closure before being saved by the community
One of the most powerful moments in its history came in 2001, when a campaign helped secure its future, leading to the formation of The Kings Theatre Trust.
Since then, over £2.25 million has been invested in restoring and preserving the building.
Things You Might Not Know
– The theatre is Grade II* listed—meaning it’s of national architectural importance
– Early audiences were seated by class and status, not just ticket price
– Today, it welcomes major touring productions like Mamma Mia!, Chicago, and We Will Rock You
The Kings Theatre Today
Fast forward to today, and The Kings Theatre is more than just a venue. As a working theatre, it has become a community hub, training ground for young performers and an archive of Portsmouth’s cultural history. Coupled with professional touring productions and in-house shows, The Kings Theatre offers the community a vast array of incredible productions.
Looking Ahead To The 1907 Elevation
Now, we’re writing the next chapter.
The 1907 Elevation isn’t just about improving the building—it’s about securing the future of The Kings for the next 100 years and onwards.
It’s about:
– Preserving the heritage
– Enhancing the audience experience
– Creating new spaces for creativity and community
– Making the theatre more accessible and sustainable
Theatres like this don’t just belong to the past.
Final Thought
If walls could talk, The Kings Theatre would have quite the story to tell.
From Edwardian ambition to modern-day revival, it has remained what it was always meant to be:
A place where people come together—to laugh, escape, and to be inspired.
And with regeneration underway, the best chapters may still be ahead.