The Marlowe Theatre has stood at the heart of Canterbury for generations. This is the story of how it came to be.
From its earliest days as a cinema to the landmark venue it is today, the theatre has continually reinvented itself while remaining a much-loved part of the city.
Explore the milestones below.
1949
The Marlowe opens its doors
The original Marlowe Theatre opened on St Margaret’s Street, named after Canterbury-born playwright Christopher Marlowe.
A theatre worthy of the city of Canterbury.The Kentish Gazette
1984
A new home on The Friars
The theatre relocated to a converted cinema on The Friars, greatly expanding its capacity and programme.
The move transformed what we could offer audiences.Theatre Director
2011
The new Marlowe Theatre
A landmark new building opened, establishing the Marlowe as one of the leading regional theatres in the country.
Want to know more about our history? Visit our archive or get in touch with the team.