About Chorley Theatre
Chorley Theatre first opened on 3rd September 1910 as the Empire Electric Picture Palace, making it one of the oldest still-operating purpose-built cinemas in the world. It is now a thriving multi-arts venue with plays, comedy, family shows, music and more alongside regular film and event cinema screenings.
Since 1960 it has been owned and operated by Chorley Amateur Dramatic & Operatic Society (CADOS), who have been putting on award-winning productions for nearly 90 years. CADOS now present at least 6 productions per Season (a Season runs from January until December)
It is also the home of the award-winning Chorley Youth Theatre who meet every Saturday, putting on shows throughout the year; and Chorley Empire Cinema who present the cinema experience on their 21-foot wide screen with 8-Speaker Surround Sound.
It’s a great venue for comedy, with touring comedians visiting all year round; and intimate music events with great local bands.
Run entirely by volunteers the Theatre is fully equipped to present a great night out. The intimate auditorium is perfect for plays, musicals, comedy and music.
It has 234 fully-furnished seats, state-of-the-art sound systems and a full range of lighting equipment.
There are 2 spacious Dressing Rooms to the rear of the stage which include room for costumes and props.
Our fully-licenced Empire Bar has a wide range of drinks at reasonable prices. The building has disabled access throughout the public area, including a toilet, and the auditorium is fitted with hearing loop. There are 3 spaces for wheelchairs in the auditorium.
In 2021 we added a Studio space in old Indian restaurant next door, which will be used for special events, rehearsals, community groups, music, plays, comedy and more.
What’s on here
Nothing is on sale at this venue at the moment. New dates are added all the time — try one of these instead.