Manx National Heritage has opened a new exhibition celebrating a milestone in the history of the Gaiety Theatre.
It was back in 1900 that master theatre architect Frank Matcham took a non-descript music hall on Douglas Promenade, and remodelled it into something truly special.
Over the years it survived changes in taste and fashion, and narrowly avoided demolition on at least one occasion.
It was lovingly restored to its former glory in the 1990s, when garish and inappropriate additions and accretions were removed, and the theatre now stands as the finest example of its kind in the British Isles.
Celebrating the Gaiety
Manx National Heritage, working in conjunction with theatre staff and Friends of the Gaiety, have now brought together a selection of images from key moments in the theatre’s past, including the original building, conversion work and restoration, together with the big names – past and present – who trod the boards there.
Alongside this, a selection of original objects illustrate both the performance history of the building (with Ken Dodd’s drum as an undoubted highlight) and the technical aspects of how a theatre works – literally behind the scenes.
Matthew Richardson, Manx National Heritage Curator of Social History commented: “I have always loved the atmosphere of the Gaiety and have long thought how lucky we are on the Island to have such a magnificent building, so personally it was a great honour to be asked to work on this exhibition.
“We’ve had great support from both staff and Friends of the Gaiety, and for me, the hardest part has been how to distil so much history which surrounds this building into one temporary exhibition.”
Séamus Shea Technical Manager at VillaGaiety added: “We’re delighted to be marking this remarkable milestone with this special exhibition in partnership with Manx National Heritage.
“The captivating display highlights the theatre’s rich past, from its vibrant performances and renowned artists over the years to its transformation into a cinema and eventual restoration. It’s a perfect opportunity to honour the legacy of this iconic venue and reflect on its ongoing story.”
Gaiety 125 is opened on Saturday (January 25) and runs until Sunday, May 18 at the Manx Museum Cabinet of Curiosity, and after a short break in the summer, will be back later in the year.
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