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____________________________________________________________________________________________ The Grand Circus, Peter Street, Manchester
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In March 1883 the improvements Committee of the Manchester Corporation approved plans, drawn up by a Mr. Weldon, for the construction of a new building in Peter Street, Manchester for Edward Garcia, who also ran the Folly Theatre in Manchester at the time, and was planning the construction of the Gaiety Theatre which would actually open as the Comedy Theatre in 1884. Garcia planned to open his new Circus venue as a home for 'equestrian entertainments' and at the time it was stated that the building would 'doubtless add to the already manifold attractions of the locality.' The building, which was said to have been constructed as a 'permanent structure' and had a 'plain stuccoed front' was constructed of brick and stone. The Grand Circus as it was called on its opening on Saturday the 22nd of September 1883, had an auditorium of three storeys consisting of a lower floor of Pit and Gallery, a first floor of 'reserved seats' and an upper story of 'a huge and commodious promenade.' The whole auditorium was lined with mirrors and the seats were upholstered in velvet. It was said to have been able to accommodate some 3,000 people. On its opening night Edward Garcia put on an elaborate show consisting of many 'first class' equestrian acts, several equilibrists and juglers, performing horses, and a 'staff of jesters - headed by the celebrated Mr. Wallet.' If you know any more about this Theatre of have programmes or images you are willing to share please Contact me. |
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