Buildings of Distinction - The Dukes - Lancaster
Jun, 14 2026
I could spend the next 5 minutes and 30 seconds going into great detail about The Dukes theatre in Lancaster, England. I may have informed you to a degree but you might have lost interest and felt I was providing too much information.
Instead, in the same time frame this video will answer the question – ‘What makes The Dukes special?’ Please watch –
As mentioned in the video it has been opened since 1971 which was previously St. Anne’s church. An approximate figure of £18,000 was invested to cover a year – long conversion. Interesting fact - The Queen, who also held the title of "Duke of Lancaster", gave her permission for the use of the name and the theatre was opened by Paymaster General and Minister for the Arts, Viscount Eccles.
The theatre has three auditoria across two separate buildings. In the main building "The Rake" is the larger space seating approximately 313, with "The Round" studio space seating approximately 240. The Dukes Centre for Creative Learning, a short walk up Moor Lane, has its own dedicated space for youth and community projects and performances.
The video highlighted the annual success of the open – air theatre shows which have been drawing in crowds since 1987. Established actor Andy Serkis, now an honorary patron of the theatre, appeared in the first ‘Play in the Park.’
Another popular feature of its schedule is the homegrown shows it presents. Recently the theatre has taken the decision to produce shows which have a strong connection to their audiences and in 2017 created Blackout, which told the story of how Storm Desmond affected the Lancaster and Morecambe area.
The video briefly touched on the Centre for Creative Learning. The Creative Learning arm of The Dukes organise a variety of projects with children, young people and adults, aiming to broaden access to the arts.
The Dukes' Young Company produce a show each year as well as making appearances in some of the other productions at the theatre including the Play in the Park. Notable former members of The Dukes' Young Company include Coronation Street actress Cherylee Houston who is now an honorary patron at the theatre.
For the latest events and shows simply visit the following website link –
In addition the ccg posts weekly events covering The Dukes in Lancaster if you’re not always able to visit the website. This usually occurs at the weekend.
One of the most excellent initiatives The Dukes has been involved in, is the three year – ‘A Life More Ordinary’ programme. This designed to improve the lives and mental well- being of people living with dementia. A variety of activities including dementia friendly film screenings, which include an interval and live music accompaniment and tailored participatory workshops were developed and shared with other cinemas and theatres across the country. The programme culminated in the 'Creative Adventures in Dementia' conference at The Dukes in May 2018.
Eight years later and The Dukes in Lancaster remains a building of distinction. Located near the city centre and a pivotal place for switching off and switching on to cultural entertainment. It’s attractive and engaging exterior welcomes all to experience an evening of professional thespians trained to provide a relaxing night felt by all. In the 55 years since it was opened it has grown to become a beacon of theatrical persuasion for those that have an interest in the arts or those that are part of the sailing ship that keeps it afloat. Either way, in 2026 it remains a popular visit and with continued investment it indicates it could still be here for another five decades plus.
^Alex Ashworth Director of Creativity
