Thorndike Theatre

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What secrets lie behind these walls? The Thorndike Theatre, now known as the Leatherhead Theatre, has seen its fair share of drama, both on and off stage. The theatre we see today had a former life as the Crescent Cinema. Imagine, a 1930s picture house transformed into a beacon of live performance! Roderick Ham, a prominent theatre architect, spearheaded the ambitious project in the late 1960s. The Thorndike Theatre officially opened its doors on September 17th, 1969. It was a grand occasion graced by none other than Princess Margaret herself. The theatre was named in honor of the esteemed actress, Dame Sybil Thorndike, a testament to its commitment to theatrical excellence. The Thorndike Theatre boasted a modernist design and an impressive capacity, seating over 500 eager patrons. However, the life of a theatre is rarely a smooth performance. The Thorndike faced financial struggles, even closing briefly in the 1990s. But like a true actor, it rose to the occasion, reopening under new management and ultimately securing its place as a Grade II listed building, a testament to its architectural and cultural significance.

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