Liverpool Playhouse is one of the city's best loved institutions that sits below the Radio City tower.
But not everyone knows the history it holds as the oldest repertory theatre in England.
The venue first opened its doors as the Star Music Hall in 1866 and later became a theatre in 1911.
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Back then, Williamson Square was also home to a second theatre - the now demolished Theatre Royal.
The Theatre Royal opened on June 5, 1772, and was later rebuilt in 1802 with a striking curved facade designed by John Foster.
It hosted readings by Charles Dickens and staged both plays and opera until it fell into decline in the 1890s, when the building was stripped out and acquired for use as a cold store.
Its facade survived until 1971 - inspiring the curved Playhouse extension next door – but it was flattened for road improvements.
While its surroundings may have changed considerably over the years, the Playhouse still stands proudly in Williamson Square 155 years later.
An article from the ECHO's archive dated September 19, 1968, said the opening of the theatre's new extension was marked with a production of The Lyons Mail.
An extract from the article reads: "Refurbished and elaborately extended, Liverpool Playhouse re-opened with three gala performances last week, and got down to real business with the general public as audience on Tuesday last.
"Prior to the rise of the curtain tours were made round the theatre which, in addition to all the interior altercations and improvements, has had an effective black and white facelift on the front of the original buildings - now more than 100 years old - which cleverly brings it into line with the new very modern glass extension where catering facilities will be provided throughout the day."
Countless stars have performed on stage at the Playhouse over the years, from Michael Redgrave and Rachel Kempson, to Anthony Hopkins and Sir Ian McKellen.
During his one-man show back in May 2019, Sir Ian heaped praise on the building and spoke of his admiration and affection for the theatre, which is the last remaining Victorian theatre in Liverpool.
In 1999, the Playhouse joined forces with the Everyman Theatre on Hope Street to offer the city "two great theatres, one creative heart."
Both theatres continue to hold a special place in people's affections across the city, with many being delighted to return to the venues now the remaining lockdown restrictions have lifted.
You can read what's on at the Everyman and Playhouse in the coming months by clicking here.
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