The Plowright Theatre, located on Laneham Street in Scunthorpe, is a cherished cultural venue that has been at the heart of the town’s performing arts scene since 1958. Originally known as the Scunthorpe Civic Theatre, it was renamed in the 1990s in honour of Dame Joan Plowright, a celebrated actress born in nearby Brigg and educated in Scunthorpe. The theatre was built by J.W. Taylor and commissioned by the former Scunthorpe Borough Council, and it remains under the ownership of North Lincolnshire Council today.
This traditional proscenium-style theatre features a 354-seat auditorium, offering an intimate yet professional setting for a wide range of live performances. It hosts everything from music concerts and comedy shows to pantomimes, dance, and amateur dramatics. Local groups such as the Scunthorpe Musical Theatre Society and the Scunthorpe Gilbert and Sullivan Amateur Operatic Society regularly perform here, contributing to a vibrant community arts calendar.
The Plowright Theatre is also known for attracting big-name acts. In 2008, it made headlines when tickets for comedian Lee Evans sold out in just over an hour, setting a box office record for the venue. Despite its modest size, the theatre has a loyal following and continues to draw audiences from across the region for its diverse and accessible programming.
Visitors often praise the theatre for its friendly atmosphere, well-maintained facilities, and the convenience of its central location. The small café bar adds to the experience, offering refreshments before performances. As the sister venue to The Baths Hall, The Plowright Theatre plays a key role in Scunthorpe’s cultural life, offering entertainment for all ages in a welcoming and historic setting.
Monday to Friday: 10:30am – 4pm
Saturday: 10am – 2pm
Accessible
Baby changing
Family friendly
Parking
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