The theatre first opened in 1939 with a performance of The Gondoliers by the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company.
During the 2017 refurbishment, the stage house was completely rebuilt to allow for the staging of technically demanding West End productions.
The venue’s transformation project was a major part of Hull's status as the UK City of Culture in 2017.
The theatre is designed to support a wide range of genres, from intimate acoustic sessions to large-scale orchestral and musical theatre productions.
The auditorium retains Art Deco architectural elements from its original 1930s construction.
Hull New Theatre is a premier regional venue in Kingston upon Hull that hosts major touring West End musicals, opera, ballet, and contemporary music acts. The building underwent a significant £16 million refurbishment in 2017 to improve acoustics, sightlines, and technical infrastructure while preserving its Art Deco heritage. It serves as the city’s primary large-scale performance space, accommodating over 1,300 patrons across multiple tiers. The venue occupies a prominent position on Kingston Square in the city centre. It features a modern fly tower and enhanced stage facilities to support elaborate large-scale productions. The theatre is a central component of Hull’s cultural circuit, functioning as a primary anchor for the local arts economy.
The illuminated facade facing Kingston Square during the evening provides a classic architectural shot.
Book tickets well in advance for popular West End touring productions as they often sell out.
Check the venue's accessibility page if you require specific seating arrangements, as the older parts of the building have been upgraded for modern needs.
Arrive early to enjoy the refurbished foyer bar area before the performance begins.
Do not attempt to park in the immediate square as parking is extremely limited; use nearby multi-story car parks.
Smart-casual attire is the standard; refrain from using mobile devices during performances.
