The Georgian Theatre Experience is celebrating its success at this week’s White Rose Awards ceremony.
The theatre was Highly Commended in the Small Attraction of the Year category for its popular guided heritage tours and recently opened exhibition area.
During a visit to The Georgian Theatre Experience, which was launched in Summer 2016 following a £500,000 redevelopment programme, people are given a back-stage guided tour of the UK’s oldest working theatre in its original form.
Here they can look around the distinctive three-tiered auditorium, discover hidden trap doors, peek inside stars’ dressing rooms, as well as tread the boards of the historic stage itself.
There is also an opportunity to spend time in the new exhibition area and find out more about the lives of Georgian actors and their 18th century audiences through interactive displays, digital presentations and a wide range of exhibits.
The tours are all conducted by a team of dedicated volunteers whose individual insight into the theatre’s history makes each visitor experience unique.
Guy Wilman, who was at the awards ceremony in Leeds, is part of the team of volunteers that ensure visitors receive a top-class experience and friendly welcome.
He said: “This recognition means such a lot to all the volunteers who work at the theatre.
“The theatre is a very special place and we love showing it off to visitors. It is a privilege to meet so many people and we strive to make each visit as enjoyable and memorable as possible.”
“This is a fantastic achievement for an attraction that only opened its doors just over a year ago,” said Mac Bryant, chairman of the theatre’s board of directors.
“Visitors to our magical historic theatre are full of praise for the Georgian Theatre Experience but this ringing endorsement from Welcome to Yorkshire is truly the icing on the cake.”
Organised by Welcome to Yorkshire, the awards recognise and reward the very best in tourism throughout the county across 17 specialist categories.
