About
Leeds Playhouse (formerly West Yorkshire Playhouse, originally The Leeds Playhouse) is Yorkshire's leading producing theatre located at Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds LS2 7UP.
About Leeds Playhouse
Heritage and History
Leeds Playhouse was originally founded in 1970 as The Leeds Playhouse.
The theatre moved to its purpose-built home on Quarry Hill in 1990. At this time, it adopted the name West Yorkshire Playhouse.
In 2018, the theatre underwent a major redevelopment. Following this transformation, it proudly reclaimed its original name — Leeds Playhouse.
Today, Leeds Playhouse has served the city's cultural life for over 50 years.
What We Do
Leeds Playhouse is one of the UK's leading producing theatres. It is known for bold, inclusive, and socially engaged work.
The theatre creates storytelling that resonates locally and nationally. It produces original work that connects with diverse audiences.
Leeds Playhouse creates productions for its own stages. It also develops work for touring across the UK.
The Playhouse presents work for communities across Yorkshire and beyond. This includes partnerships with local and regional organizations.
Productions and Performances
The theatre presents large-scale spectacles. These include musicals, adaptations of classic novels, and epic dramas.
Leeds Playhouse stages intimate dramas. These feature new writing, solo performances, and experimental theatre.
The Playhouse nurtures original voices. It commissions work from emerging and established writers.
Leeds Playhouse collaborates with leading artists. It works with some of the most exciting talent in British theatre.
Community and Engagement
Leeds Playhouse plays a vital role in the community. It operates a wide-ranging programme of creative engagement.
The theatre works with schools. It delivers drama workshops, curriculum-linked projects, and teacher training.
Leeds Playhouse engages with community groups. This includes partnerships with local organizations and grassroots initiatives.
The Playhouse supports people with learning disabilities. It creates accessible performances and inclusive workshops.
The theatre works with older people. It offers reminiscence projects and performance opportunities.
Leeds Playhouse welcomes refugees. It provides creative activities that support integration and wellbeing.
The Playhouse nurtures young people. It runs youth theatre programmes, performance skills courses, and career development initiatives.
The theatre offers opportunities for everyone to get involved. Anyone can experience the transformative power of performance.
Venues and Facilities
Leeds Playhouse's home on Quarry Hill includes two theatres. These are the Quarry Theatre and the Courtyard Theatre.
Quarry Theatre
The Quarry Theatre is the main auditorium. It seats up to 750 people.
This space features flexible staging. It can accommodate thrust, in-the-round, and proscenium configurations.
The Quarry Theatre hosts large-scale productions. It presents musicals, classic drama, and touring shows.
Courtyard Theatre
The Courtyard Theatre is an intimate studio space. It seats up to 350 people.
This venue offers flexible seating arrangements. The configuration changes to suit each production.
The Courtyard Theatre presents experimental work. It showcases new writing, community performances, and emerging artists.
Café and Bars
Leeds Playhouse has a welcoming café. It serves hot drinks, snacks, and light meals.
The venue features lively bars. They open for performances and serve a range of drinks.
Visitors can stop by for a coffee. You don't need a ticket to enjoy the café.
Leeds Playhouse is a vibrant place to connect. It welcomes people to create, socialize, and be inspired.
Visitor Information
Address
Leeds PlayhousePlayhouse Square
Quarry Hill
Leeds
LS2 7UP
United Kingdom
Box Office
Telephone: 0113 213 7700
Opening Hours: Tuesday and Friday, 12pm – 4pm
Online Booking: leedsplayhouse.org.uk
Café Opening Hours
Monday to Friday: 8:30am – 4:00pm
On performance days, the café remains open until the show begins.
Accessibility
Leeds Playhouse is fully accessible.
- Wheelchair spaces available in both theatres
- Accessible toilets throughout the building
- Hearing loop systems in both auditoria
- Step-free access to all public areas
- BSL-interpreted and audio-described performances
- Baby changing facilities
- Assistance dogs welcome
For specific accessibility requirements, contact the Box Office in advance.
Getting Here
By Train: Leeds Playhouse is a 10-minute walk from Leeds railway station.
By Bus: Several bus routes stop near Quarry Hill. Services include routes 2, 3, 12, 50, and 51.
By Car: Public car parks are available nearby, including Quarry Hill Car Park and St Peter's Street Car Park.
By Bike: Bicycle racks are available at the venue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Leeds Playhouse located?
Leeds Playhouse is located at Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds LS2 7UP. It is a short walk from Leeds city centre and easily accessible by bus and train.
When is the Leeds Playhouse Box Office open?
The Box Office is open Tuesday and Friday from 12pm to 4pm. You can call 0113 213 7700 or book tickets online at leedsplayhouse.org.uk.
Does Leeds Playhouse have a café?
Yes, Leeds Playhouse has a café open Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:00pm. On performance days, the café stays open until the show begins. The venue also has bars that open for performances.
Is Leeds Playhouse wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Leeds Playhouse is fully accessible. Both theatres have wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, hearing loops, and step-free access throughout the building.
What types of shows does Leeds Playhouse present?
Leeds Playhouse presents drama, musicals, new writing, touring productions, community performances, and family shows. The theatre creates its own productions and hosts work from leading UK theatre companies.
When did Leeds Playhouse change its name from West Yorkshire Playhouse?
The theatre reclaimed its original name Leeds Playhouse in 2018 following a major redevelopment. It was originally founded as The Leeds Playhouse in 1970, became West Yorkshire Playhouse when it moved to Quarry Hill in 1990, and returned to Leeds Playhouse in 2018.
Plan Your Visit
Discover what's on at Leeds Playhouse and book your tickets today.
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Details
Address
Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7UP