Located in the heart of Birmingham, the Alexandra Theatre (previously the New Alexandra Theatre), was first built in 1901 and originally named the Lyceum. Opening with an unsuccessful play The Workman , the venue quickly became associated with hosting melodramas, variety shows and pantomimes. After passing through various owners, it is now managed by the Ambassador Theatre Group. Like many theatres, the venue is said to be haunted by ghosts, including that of owner Leon Salberg, who died in his office in 1938. It also hosted former Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, who gave a speech there in 1918 as a local MP.
In 2018, the Alexandra Theatre was officially relaunched following a £650,000 refurbishment and now has a seating capacity of 1,347 with a plush, royal blue interior. The theatre celebrated its re-opening by hosting the first stop of that year’s Motown the Musical tour. Now fondly referred to simply as The Alex by locals, it is best-known for popular events such as touring productions, entertainment and comedy from across the UK and West End.