Introduction to the History of the Theatre

The History of the Theatre Royal, Stratford East can be split into three broad periods:

Its beginnings: Actor-Manager Charles Dillon engaged Architect James George Buckle to design Stratford's first permanent playhouse, the Theatre Royal, in 1884 (1884-1953)

The arrival of Joan Littlewood and her Theatre Workshop Company. At her death in 2002, tributes poured in from actors, directors, critics, and theatre historians, all hailing the ground-breaking work of Joan Littlewood. To read about her work at Theatre Royal click (1953 - 1979).

The Theatre today is the period from when Philip Hedley took over as Artistic Director in 1979 (1979 - 2004) to be succeeded by the current Director Kerry Michael. For an insight of his vision and previous experience, click (from 2004)

Kerry Michael, Theatre Royal Artistic Director in the news. To read the article by Aleks Sierz in the Sunday Times, click here.

Theatre Royal Stratford East Archives Collection

Theatre Royal Stratford East Archives Collection has an extensive collection of theatrical images and memorabilia - from the opening of Theatre Royal in 1884, to Joan Littlewood's Theatre Workshop, through to the present day - available for reproduction. Please click here for information and fees.