Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury

The Marlowe Theatre is a 1,200-seat contemporary theatre in the historic city of Canterbury, opened in October 2011 after a £25.6 million redevelopment. Named after playwright Christopher Marlowe, who was born and attended school in Canterbury, the theatre features a distinctive pointed flytower clad in stainless steel mesh and polished stone columns. The main auditorium includes balconies, a flytower, and orchestra pit, with an additional 150-seat performance space. The theatre is a producing house focused on new writing and hosts regular visiting companies including the Royal Shakespeare Company, Glyndebourne Opera, and Matthew Bourne, alongside established touring acts. As a registered charity operated by the Marlowe Trust, the venue offers comprehensive accessibility provisions including audio description, BSL performances, captions, and relaxed/chilled performances. The theatre is renowned for its annual pantomimes and has received numerous awards including The Stage Awards 2022 UK Theatre of the Year.