Culture Crawl: Six Theatres, Galleries & Live Music Venues

Culture Crawl: Six Theatres, Galleries & Live Music Venues

24 Aug 2025

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In this episode of Spotlight on Cheltenham, I, Solomon Prescott will guide you through six vibrant cultural venues that showcase the town’s creative heartbeat. From historic theatres and grand concert halls to intimate galleries and local music hotspots, these places illuminate Cheltenham’s rich arts scene and are alive with performances, exhibitions, and community spirit. Featured Cultural Venues: Everyman Theatre — A Grade II–listed architectural gem on Regent Street, offering a year‑round programme of theatre, musicals, comedy, and film in its historic Frank Matcham‑designed auditorium. The Playhouse — A charming community theatre housed in the former Montpellier Baths (built 1806/7), run entirely by volunteers since 1958, nurturing local amateur performances and theatre magic. Cheltenham Town Hall — A grand Regency hall and hub for live music, comedy, festivals, exhibitions, and cultural events, complete with a café and ambient garden bar. The Bacon Theatre — Nestled within Dean Close School, this mid‑sized venue hosts professional theatre, live music, films, dance, and community events, alongside the seasonal Open‑Air Theatre Festival in the Tuckwell Amphitheatre. The Wilson Art Gallery & Museum — Cheltenham’s main public art gallery and museum, home to diverse visual collections, exhibitions, and the “We Are Creators” artist development programme fostering local creative talent. The Frog & Fiddle — A beloved High Street pub and live‑music venue since 1998, complete with teapot cocktails, darts, karaoke, pool, a barn‑style performance space, and local gigs—including the annual “Frogfest.”