The Playhouse Theatre is home to the Lindley Players, an amateur drama group that has been performing in Whitstable since the end of World War II. Attend one of their regular performances in this charming venue, which was originally a church.
Though the Lindley Players have been performing since 1946, the theatre itself only opened in 1982 when the former United Reform Church underwent a drastic makeover. The first production to be staged here was Voyage Round My Father, an autobiographical play by the English dramatist and barrister Sir John Mortimer.
The eclectic programming includes everything from modern drama productions to Shakespeare plays, pantomimes and musicals. The auditorium holds approximately 200 people and has a balcony and a lower level. There are good views from all sections.
Before going inside, study the exterior, which still looks very much like a church building. However, once inside, you’ll note very few signs that the building was once a place of worship. At the interval, buy a drink and a light snack from the bar.
The Playhouse Theatre also screens movies as well as putting on drama performances from other esteemed U.K. theatre venues such as the National Theatre in London. There are concerts and stand-up comedy shows too. Check with the box office or go to the venue’s official website to see what’s on during your time in the seaside town.
Make a night out of it and book in for a pre-theatre dinner at one of Whitstable’s celebrated seafood restaurants. After the performance, enjoy a post-show nightcap in one of the town’s cosy pubs.
The theatre is located on the High Street in Whitstable, less than a 5-minute walk from the waterfront and about a 10-minute walk from the train station. If you are coming by car, you will find street parking, for a fee, near the venue.
Tickets can be purchased from the Playhouse Theatre’s website or from the box office. Prices vary depending on the show.