Alterations: Queen’s Theatre Bridge Street Manchester

QUEEN'S THEATRE. Important alterations have also been made the Queen's Theatre, Bridge Street. All wooden staircases used for purposes of exit have been demolished and replaced with solid stone steps, built into the brick walls, and introduction handrails both sides. A new and additional staircase of similar fireproof construction has been provided, from the upper gallery down to the ground floor level, in order to afford additional means of departure. All the doors leading to the various points of exit have been so constructed to open outwardly. The stage is isolated from the auditorium by solid brick walls and a fire-proof asbestos curtain, which can be lowered instantaneously. The four sections of the theatre are cut off from all connection one with the other, and with all the others in the event of fire; and all the dividing walls between them are carried up to a considerable height through the roofs. The comfort and the sanitary condition of the theatre have been improved by the raising in height of the ventilating shafts, and the introduction of louvre ventilators over the staircases. All the lead gas pipes have been replaced with iron pipes. The architectural character of the principal entrance to the dress circle and boxes has been materially altered by a remodelling of the beams and archways, so as to make them more in accordance with the interior of the theatre itself than those which have hitherto existed, and similar modifications have been made in the proportions and architectural character of the proscenium. The fronts of the circle, gallery, and proscenium present an artistic appearance, the modelling of the ornamental work having been emphasised by an excellent scheme of colouring and gilding, which distinctly adds to the richness of the general effect. These improvements have been carried out by Lawrence Booth, architect, of Manchester, and they have met with the approval of the magistrates. The theatre will remain under the popular management of Mr. Richard Mansell. [Manchester Courier 12 August 1887 page 5]

Reference           Manchester Courier 12 August 1887 page 5