Bristol Hippodrome, Bristol

The Bristol Hippodrome is a renowned theater with a seating capacity of 1,951, spread across three levels. It is a popular venue for touring shows from London's West End, as well as regular performances by the Welsh National Opera and an annual pantomime.

Designed by Frank Matcham for Oswald Stoll, Bristol Hippodrome opened on December 16, 1912. It's a grade II listed building by English Heritage. At the time of its opening, it had a large water tank in front of the stage that could hold 100,000 gallons (450,000 liters). A protective glass screen could be raised for the safety of the orchestra and patrons in the stalls. The theater also has a dome that is rarely opened now due to the presence of air conditioning.

Despite enduring World War II, the Bristol Hippodrome remained intact, barring the stage which was destroyed by fire less than three years after the war ended. Remarkably, the auditorium survived, and the theater reopened its doors approximately ten months later.

The theater continues to host a multitude of high-profile shows, including Miss Saigon, Cats, Les Misérables, Blood Brothers, and Of Mice and Men. With a large stage rivaling London's finest, it enables grand productions. The theater also features renowned comedians such as Russell Howard, Frankie Boyle, Ricky Tomlinson, and Lee Mack, along with children's shows like Winnie the Pooh Live.

In 2012, the theater celebrated its centenary with a special production called "Thanks for the Memories," presented by local amateur groups Bristol Light Opera Club and Bristol Musical Youth Productions.