Questors Theatre, located in the heart of Ealing, London, has been entertaining audiences for over 90 years. It is a unique and vibrant venue, comprising of two theatres: the Judi Dench Playhouse, which seats 355 people, and the Studio, a smaller theatre with a capacity of 100. Questors began as a small community theatre group in 1929, and has since grown into one of the largest non-professional theatres in Europe.
The Judi Dench Playhouse, which is the main theatre at Questors, was named in honour of the well-known actress who began her career at the theatre in the 1950s. It is a spacious and versatile theatre that can accommodate a wide range of productions, from large-scale musicals to intimate dramas. The theatre’s proscenium arch stage is equipped with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, making it a favourite among both amateur and professional theatre companies.
The smaller Studio theatre was added to Questors in the 1960s, and has since become a popular venue for experimental theatre and new writing. Its intimate setting and flexible seating arrangement allow for a more immersive theatre experience, with the audience often being just inches away from the performers.
Over the years, Questors has staged a wide range of productions, from classic plays and musicals to new works by contemporary playwrights. It has also played host to a number of famous actors and directors, including Judi Dench, who returned to the theatre in the 2000s to direct a production of “The Royal Family”. Other notable alumni of Questors include actor Hugh Grant and director Anthony Minghella.
In addition to its mainstage productions, Questors is also home to a thriving youth theatre program, which provides training and performance opportunities for young actors and theatre technicians. The program is open to children and teenagers aged 5-19, and offers classes in acting, singing, and dance, as well as technical theatre skills such as lighting and sound design.
Today, Questors continues to be an important part of the London theatre scene, providing a platform for both established and emerging talent. Its commitment to promoting the arts and fostering creativity has made it a beloved institution in the local community and beyond.
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