Joseph Rowntree Theatre: The 'integral' Yorkshire theatre that was founded on chocolate
Since 1935, the Joseph Rowntree Theatre has been an integral part of the artistic life in York.
Founded on chocolate, the theatre was commissioned by the Joseph Rowntree Village Trust for the workers of the Rowntree & Company chocolate factory.
Opened in 1935 it is a beautiful Art Deco building, which stands opposite the original factory building.
The aim of the Joseph Rowntree Village Trustees was to build a centre for recreational and educational activities that make for a full and happy life.
The theatre is one of only two facilities that are still used for their original purpose, the other being the swimming pool. Now a new show is planned to help raise money to help the theatre thrive.
The Joseph Rowntree Theatre’s in-house fundraising company kicks off the Theatre’s spring season with a story of the Wild West.
Gracing the stage for the second time since the Joseph Rowntree Theatre’s inception in 1935, Calamity Jane is a story of friendship, adventure, and romance - both with others, and with yourself - set against the dramatic backdrop of the Western Frontier.
Leading the Deadwood Stage through their travels is director Sophie Cooke, and Musical Director, Martin Lay.
Having been a fan of the ‘feel good show’ in all its adaptations since her childhood, She chose this show for JRTC, as it is ‘filled to the brim’ with songs beloved by multiple generations.
She says: “The community spirit in Deadwood really captures the spirit of community theatre — everyone pulling together, supporting each other, and having fun along the way.
“The stage is absolutely packed with talent. The cast's joy really shines through, and the audience will feel it from the moment the curtain goes up.
"You’ll laugh, tap your feet, and might even find yourself singing along.”
As the eighth full-scale musical performed by the Joseph Rowntree Theatre Company since 2017, Calamity Jane joins a legacy of much beloved productions from the group, including Kiss Me, Kate!, Hello Dolly, Curtains and 2025’s Beauty and the Beast.
Based in-house at the Theatre, all profits from the company’s productions fund the maintenance and development of the long-running community stage: allowing local performers, volunteers and audience members alike to come together and enjoy classic and contemporary theatre in a space of their own.
Since 2017, the diverse group of volunteer performers have raised over £50,000 for the theatre, with plans for future productions under way.
Calamity Jane runs from February 4-7, with a matinee performance on the Saturday. Tickets are £19 (£12 for under-18s) and are available from the Joseph Rowntree Theatre box office: at https://www.josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk/whats-on/musical/calamity-jane/2830 or on 01904 501935.