UK's oldest puppet theatre gets listed status

A 118-seat venue in Wales that has been labelled the oldest permanent puppet theatre in the UK has been awarded Grade II-listed status.

Harlequin Puppet Theatre has been given the listing by government agency Cadw in honour of its 65th birthday.

This means it is a building of special interest that justifies every effort to preserve it, the Welsh government said.

The theatre in Rhos-on-Sea opened on July 7, 1958, constructed by Eric Bramall, and was the first purpose-built puppet theatre in Britain.

Welcoming the decision, the venue said: “A theatre so unique and with such a rich history deserves to be preserved.

“Cadw is the historic environment service of the Welsh government and works with owners to protect the historic buildings and structures, landscapes and heritage sites of Wales.

“The enchantment of the Harlequin Puppet Theatre should be seen for generations to come and we are pleased that this will now be ensured.” 

A Cadw spokesperson, explaining the reasoning behind the decision, added: “The Harlequin Puppet Theatre has been listed for its special architectural and historic interest as an extremely rare example of a purpose-built puppet theatre.

"It is the first permanent example in the UK and well-preserved interpretation of the Festival of Britain style. The theatre is an unusual piece of post-war architecture by Gwilym Parry Davies and Eric Bramall, with great historic interest as the home of Lili Lon and many other much-loved characters.”