Theatre in Cambridge

There's a palpable sense of thespian history if you pay a visit to the ADC Theatre, where actors have been treading the boards since 1855. Britain's oldest university playhouse, its roots date back to the formation of Cambridge University Amateur Dramatic Club, which originally met at an old coaching inn.

Today, it stages productions for several resident student theatrical companies, among them the legendary Cambridge Footlights, which nurtured the talents of future comedy stars such as John Cleese, Hugh Laurie, Sue Perkins, David Mitchell and Richard Ayoade. And it’s not just famous performers who have cut their teeth at the ADC Theatre – Sir Peter Hall and Sir Trevor Nunn are among the many world-famous directors who have worked there earlier in their careers.

Another venue with a heritage to be proud of is the Cambridge Arts Theatre. Originally launched in 1936 by John Maynard Keynes (who knew a thing or two about the arts, as well as economics), its stage has since been graced by the likes of Sir Derek Jacobi, Emma Thompson and Stephen Fry. Today, the theatre continues to attract high-profile touring productions from companies such as the National Theatre and Cheek by Jowl. And, following a £1.5 million redevelopment in 2013, it has much-improved foyer and bar facilities.

Cambridge Arts Theatre also holds regular pre- and post-show talks for many of its shows, giving the audience a chance to hear from directors and cast members. The popular Italian café Aromi is just a stone’s throw away from the theatre as well if you’re looking for somewhere for a drink or bite to eat before a performance.

Just outside the city is the Mumford Theatre, only 15 minutes' walk from our Cambridge East (Newmarket Road) hotel. Located within the campus of the Anglia Ruskin University, it's another university theatre which stages a mixture of professional touring productions, community shows and student theatre.The venue has won a lot of admirers for its tiered seating design, which ensures a great view from all of its 270 seats. The Mumford Theatre also hosts free lunchtime recitals and other music events.