Derby Hippodrome
Derby Hippodrome is a purpose built theatre opened in 1914 as a 2,300 capacity Variety house. It was converted in 1930 into an 1,800 seat cinema, becoming a theatre once more for only 9 years until 1959. Three years later the theatre was purchased by Mecca Group who converted the theatre into a Bingo Social Club and was later purchased by Walker's Bingo Group.
Walkers Bingo ceased operations rather suddenly and in 2007 sold the theatre to Mr Christopher Anthony, a Property Developer. On the 28 March 2008the theatre suffered serious damage to one of its walls and part of the roof when demo machines apparently “accidently” bashed though leaving a very large hole in the side of the building! There is currently a group of people that are trying to save the theatre but as yet the big hole is still there.
Walkers Bingo ceased operations rather suddenly and in 2007 sold the theatre to Mr Christopher Anthony, a Property Developer. On the 28 March 2008the theatre suffered serious damage to one of its walls and part of the roof when demo machines apparently “accidently” bashed though leaving a very large hole in the side of the building! There is currently a group of people that are trying to save the theatre but as yet the big hole is still there.
