Belgrade Theatre, Coventry

The Belgrade Theatre is a modernist building from the 1950s situated at the heart of Coventry with multiple performance spaces inside. It houses a main auditorium, a smaller studio theatre, a café, and a bar for visitors.

It was Britain's first civic theatre built after World War II and took its name from the city of Belgrade, which donated timber for construction. This gift represented post-war reconstruction efforts and international cooperation.

The theatre shaped how British theatres engaged with young audiences by pioneering interactive performances that tackled real-world issues. This approach turned traditional theatre into a space where children could actively participate rather than simply watch.

The venue sits centrally and is easy to reach on foot, with good access to public transport and nearby parking. The square outside offers seating areas and artworks visible to anyone passing through, whether or not you attend a performance.

A fountain and the sculpture Two Sides of a Woman sit outside the building, showing how art extends beyond the theatre walls. These works create a creative environment in the surrounding square that visitors often overlook.

Location: Coventry

Official opening: 1958

Website: https://belgrade.co.uk

GPS coordinates: 52.40981,-1.51429

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:44