Manchester’s Palace Theatre has been entertaining generations of families for decades, from putting on unforgettable Christmas pantos, to hosting music and comedy legends.
The Palace Theatre on Oxford Street has gone through many alterations since it was built in 1891, but what hasn’t changed is the variety of high quality performances the much-loved theatre has put on for Manchester families. From ballets to pantos, Ken Dodd to The Rolling Stones, the venue has certainly had it all.
The MEN recently posted a photo of the Palace Theatre from 1977 in our Greater Manchester history, memories and people Facebook page which prompted many readers to share their memories of their trips to the Palace Theatre. Underneath the photo, many readers recalled the venue’s annual pantos that have been a Christmas family tradition for decades.
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In 1962, Tommy Cooper starred in the pantomime Old King Cole alongside Shani Wallis and Alfred Marks. Des O’Conner appeared in various pantos at the theatre over the years, including Aladdin in 1965 where he played the title character, and Cinderella in 1967 where he starred as Buttons.
Laurel shared his memories of the Palace Theatre’s pantomimes underneath the Facebook post. He said: “I was taken to my first panto there when I was around four years old. A comedian came on during a scene change and I shouted ‘bring the curtain down!’ Sadly he heard me, as we were in the fifth row of the stalls.”
Thomas commented: “I was a matinee dancer for a pantomime at the Palace. Very disillusioned when l saw how fake the scenery was and the smells backstage. Great fun and experience, though!” Sheena added: “Pantomime every Christmas. Loved it.”
Susan reflected on the performances she saw at the theatre. She said: “Bolshoi Ballet, Rudolf Nureyev, Starlight Express when they transformed the theatre into a roller skating rink. Elaine Paige in Evita. Marti Webb in Tell Me On A Sunday.
“Oh my goodness, I loved the Palace Theatre! Always The Northern Ballet performing The Nutcracker and going with my best friend Julie every Christmas! Happy, happy days.”
Pamela commented: “My memories were delivering the morning papers there and being taken on the stage and into the dressing rooms for a look around, fabulous memories.” Pete added: “Watching David Bowie there early on in his career.”
Howard recalled: “I went with my parents when I was 11 years old to see Ken Dodd, he mentioned that I had recovered from meningitis. I was never told how he knew. Fabulous memories of over 70 years ago.”
Kate said: “Think I saw The Temptations there back in the 1970s! Brill!” John commented: “The Roy Orbison show with the Beatles and other top bands.”
What are your memories of Manchester’s Palace Theatre? Let us know in the comments section below.
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