The best theatres in Leeds

One of the two big stages in the city, Leeds Grand theatre lives up to its name with ornate ceilings, an enormous, glittering chandelier, sweeping staircases and seating levels stretching up high into the clouds. As traditional as the Playhouse is modern, the Grand is the stage on which opera voices reverberate, ballet dancers pirouette, and panto villains shout ‘oh no he didn’t!’ with theatrical gusto. The Grand is a key venue for local performance companies Opera North and Northern Ballet, which regularly hold recitals of classic, avant-garde or lesser-known productions, showcasing world-class talent. 

For a night of culture, entertainment and sophistication, look no further than the famed West Yorkshire Playhouse at Quarry Hill. The large and contemporary stage’s red brick exterior may not look as inviting as the Leeds Grand, but holds a world-class theatre where the country’s largest touring plays and ballets regularly have runs. Sloped seating means all ticketholders are offered an excellent view of the action, while ample car parking, commended disabled access, and a highly praised restaurant make sure that a few hours’ entertainment can be turned into a complete, easy and satisfying experience. 

The third largest stage in the city centre, Carriageworks Theatre doesn’t allow itself to be overshadowed by the more famous West Yorkshire Playhouse or Leeds Grand. The forward-thinking venue nurtures local playwrights and actors, while also showcasing some of the best touring productions in the UK and Europe, meaning there is always something to see. Dance, theatre, comedy and film fill out a busy calendar, and tickets average £15 for adults with usually a few pounds discounted for students or under 16s and free tickets for babies under one year old.