The theatre was first called the Strand Musick Hall in 1864. Four years later, it became the Gaiety Theatre – known for music hall, burlesque, and operetta performances.
In the 1890s, the Gaiety presented Edwardian musical comedy which included female dancers – the famous Gaiety Girls. The theatre closed in 1939 and was badly damaged by German bombs during World War II. The shell of the building was purchased by Lupino Lane in 1946 with the intention of rebuilding the theatre. Some work was started, however, the structural problems proved too much and the building was sold on. It was finally demolished in 1956.
Image: Allan Hailstone
Image: © Steven Miell (TimeViews)
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