THE iconic Palace Theatre in Redditch is celebrating its 108th  birthday today (August 13) and it has come a long way since it first opened in 1913.

Playing host to stars such as sports legend Jimmy White, comedian Sam Avery, and renowned psychic Sally Morgan, the Palace Theatre has had its fair share of the spotlight.

However, it has not always been a theatre as in 1954 the Palace closed following financial difficulties.

Redditch Advertiser: Comedian Paul Smith and Redditch Borough Council Leader Matt Dormer at Palace Theatre's reopening night. Comedian Paul Smith and Redditch Borough Council Leader Matt Dormer at Palace Theatre's reopening night.

In 1955, it reopened as a Roller-Skating Rink and by 1959, a Dance Hall, from then it led a life in mixed use, including in the late 1960’s being used as a Bingo Hall.

Redditch Borough Council took over the management and running of the building in 1985 and since then has continued a tradition of providing a wide mix of entertainment.

Even before the numerous Covid lockdowns, the theatre on Alcester Street has had a turbulent history but has remained defiant in its place within the town.

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During the pandemic, it became a secure night shelter for rough sleepers and was thankfully awarded £173,000 to help face the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic as part of the government’s culture recovery fund.

Last month the Palace reopened after 16 months of closure to a sellout comedy show hosted by Paul Smith.

With a jam-packed schedule for the rest of the year, the historical auditorium is sure to keep Redditch rocking as the home of all thing’s entertainment.