Crucible Theatre
The Crucible Theatre, or simply The Crucible, is a theatre in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England which opened in 1971. It hosts regular theatrical performances and the annual World Snooker Championship, which has been held at the venue since 1977. The theatre's name refers to crucible steel, which was developed in Sheffield in 1740 and drove the industrialisation of the city. In May 2022 plans were unveiled to build a new 3,000-seat venue nearby with a bridge connecting the two buildings.[2]
Operation[edit]
Theatre[edit]
Under the distinguished leadership of a succession of artistic directors, The Crucible is a producing theatre, meaning shows are designed and rehearsed in-house. Productions are normally overseen by the Sheffield Theatres Group which also comprises the smaller Playhouse, housed in the same complex, and the large capacity neighbouring receiving venue the Lyceum.
Future plans[edit]
In May 2022 plans were unveiled for a new World Snooker Championship venue that would be attached to the existing Crucible Theatre building via a bridge. The new venue is to host up to 3,000 spectators.[9] Snooker promoter Barry Hearn had confirmed talks were underway with Sheffield City Council in April 2022. Hearn added that the tournament could move elsewhere if the new project is not supported but, "the Crucible name is synonymous with snooker globally... so the name has to remain."[10] The new building has been designed by the architect James Burland, the architect behind the City of Manchester Stadium, along with Arup. The building will also house a snooker museum.[11]