Theatre Royal, Nottingham

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J&C Joel were approached to manufacture new custom dyed Front of House curtains for Nottingham’s Theatre Royal.

Brimming with history, the Theatre Royal Nottingham is one of the most beautiful Victorian theatres in Britain. At nearly 150 years old, the Theatre Royal still offers an exciting and diverse programme including major touring drama, opera, ballet and contemporary dance alongside blockbuster West End musicals, comedy and pantomimes.

The new Front of House curtains were custom dyed to colour match the existing olive valance and box curtains. Manufactured from IFR Sowerby Velvet Velour (VEL700) the curtains measured seven metres wide with a six metre drop and lined with cream Sateen Lining (LIN004). The curtains were finished with 50% fullness along with authentic heavy gold fringing applied along the base.

The  Front of House curtains were manufactured with a Tableau style swag, the curves are obtained by sewing rings on the back of each curtain diagonally from the lower on-stage edge to the upper off-stage edge. In addition to the new curtains, J&C Joel organised for the valance to be cleaned and returned to it’s original, regal condition.

By manufacturing the new Front of House curtains in the original style and colour of the traditional curtains and keeping the valance, the theatre has maintained it’s classic and remarkable resplendency.

Dave Guy, Technical Director, said: “When we looked to replace our house tabs, from start to finish, J&C Joel staff were professional, efficient, helpful and friendly. They offered advice on the best fabrics and methodology in the replacement, enabling the project to be completed on schedule and within budget.”