Glimpse backstage at Rotherham's grand old dame

The open day, which is set to take place on Saturday June 18 starting at 11am, will allow theatre lovers to tour the former church and find out about the history of the place where Hollywood legends Sean Bean and Brian Blessed took their first acting steps.

There's free entry to the theatre for all the family, with a charge of 50p per person for the backstage tour.

The day will include, information about the history of the venue, the chance to meet some of the Theatre's partners and visit their stalls as well as the chance to meet the theatre's volunteer co-ordinator, volunteers and find out about volunteering opportunities.

Tours will start at 11.15am and run at half an hour intervals until 2.15pm. Places are limited to 20 per tour.

For more information please call the box office on 01709 823621

Opened on March 7, 1960 with a performance of Pride and Prejudice by Rotherham Rep, the theatre has gone onto become the creative hub of the town and has been the home to dozens of amateur dramatics companies, both past and present.

Rotherham Theatres Manager, Mark Scott, said: "This is a wonderful opportunity to take a glimpse behind the scenes at one of Rotherham's most famous landmarks.

"The Civic Theatre has entertained tens of thousands of people for the past five decades and generations of families have been enjoying the productions here during that time.

"So many people hold the Civic dear in their hearts. For many it's the place where they saw their first concert, play or pantomime. It's introduced so many people to the joys of the stage and inspired countless others to follow their acting and dancing dreams.

"Performers and performances come and go but the fabric of the building somehow seems to retain the laughter, applause and the moments that make live theatre what it is.

"I hope as many people as possible join us for the day to help celebrate this wonderful place, and discover how magic is made for the thousands of people who join us each season."

For more information please call the box office on 01709 823621.