2025 marks a remarkable milestone of our beloved community theatre – our 90-year anniversary. To finish off the celebrations in spectacular style, we’re holding a dazzling 1930s-themed afternoon fair on Saturday 15 November. You can experience the golden age of glamour with a selection of stalls, classic games and timeless treats inspired by the Art Deco era. All proceeds raised will help support the continued development of the theatre. To find out more about this family-friendly celebration and to buy tickets, click here.

A RICH HISTORY SPANNING 90 YEARS

The Joseph Rowntree Theatre is a unique and much-loved iconic art deco landmark in the City of York with a rich history and heritage. Founded in 1935 by the Rowntree Village Trust for the entertainment of its chocolate factory workers, our beautiful Grade II listed building is the only remaining Rowntree facility still serving its original purpose: to be a place for recreation, performance and connection. Since its foundation, the theatre has been a cornerstone of the York community, having showcased a record number of shows from West End classics to community dance and comedy acts. 

Today, our community theatre is a vibrant fully operational proscenium venue with 365 seats, available to hire by any organisation looking to stage a performance with full stage facilities. These include community productions, pantomimes, youth theatres, and dance and drama schools.

BY THE COMMUNITY, FOR THE COMMUNITY

What truly sets The Joseph Rowntree Theatre apart is how it’s run: entirely by the community, for the community. Led by a dedicated board of 14 trustees and supported by more than 180 volunteers, our theatre is proud to be a registered charity with roots firmly in York’s creative life. Our volunteers generously give their time to make sure every production, every performance and every visitor experience is something special. From backstage work and technical support to marketing, box office and fundraising, everyone is united in their shared love for performing arts.

A YEAR FULL OF FUN AND FUNDRAISING

The theatre’s 90-year anniversary celebrations have spanned the entire year, with a rich programme of events aimed at showcasing its legacy and continuing our fundraising efforts for its future. These have included a black-tie anniversary ball at the Milner Hotel in York on Saturday 21 June, which raised an incredible £16,000, including match funding contributions. These funds will make a real difference in helping us continue our work and expand our impact.

Please join us at the final fundraising event of the year, our 1930s-themed afternoon fair.

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LOOKING AHEAD TO THE NEXT 90 YEARS

The Joseph Rowntree Theatre’s 90th anniversary is more than a celebration of its past – it’s a chance to be part of its future.

As we excitedly look ahead to the next 90 years, we’re inviting you to leave your mark – literally – by buying a brick in our new Garden Room building. Whether you choose to dedicate it to a loved one, mark a memory or simply show your support, each brick helps lay the foundation for the next 90 years.

BUY A BRICK