Birmingham's spectacular theatres have been entertaining audiences for decades. From musicals to Christmas pantos to a lot more - Birmingham Hippodrome, the Alexandra, and other theatres have created cherished memories and cultural experiences for all.
These productions have starred some of the biggest acting names in the world as well as young talent from the city. In 2023 alone, stars like Alison Hammond and Boy George will be making a splash with their shows in Birmingham.
So, we went down memory lane to look at the big productions in Birmingham through the 80s and 90s. Here are 14 photos from theatre shows in the 80s and 90s in Birmingham:
1. Midland premiere of "Jesus Christ Superstar"
Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre was reopening after a major refurbishment with the Midland premiere of "Jesus Christ Superstar", by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd-Webber. The photograph shows Anabelle Carmichael and Jonathon Rogers putting the finishing touches to the display posters in the foyer on October 20, 1981.
2. Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre reopening
Showbiz veteran and former drummer Syd Griffiths, of Rydding Lane in West Bromwich, joined celebrations to mark the reopening of the theatre. The photograph shows stilt walker Simon Fraser doffing his hat to Syd Griffiths on October 20, 1981.
3. Annie at Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre
After a long and gruelling two days of auditions, nine local girls had been selected to appear in the musical Annie. The photograph from 3 November, 1981 shows (front row): Natalie Powers, flanked by Linzi Hateley (left) and Lisa Waddington; (back row, left to right) Heidi Cullerne, Victoria Jones, Joanne Bate, Sandra Connelly, Joanna Bingham and Nicola George.
4. Dick Whittington pantomime at Birmingham Children's Hospital
The stars of the Dick Whittington pantomime at the Hippodrome visited children in the hospital to deliver toys collected as part of a BRMB-Hippodrome Christmas Toy Appeal. The photograph shows Shaun Gilbert and his mother, Sandra, of Princess Ann Road, Bradley Lane, Bilston, meeting the Krankies and Billy Dainty on December 16, 1982.