The 19th century theatre at Chatsworth (not currently open to visitors)

This room was designed by Sir Jeffry Wyatville as a banqueting room and ballroom for the 6th Duke of Devonshire, and first completed in 1832. The ceiling is decorated with late 17th century painted panels by Sir James Thornhill and Louis Cheron, painted for the walls of the 1st Duke’s Long Gallery, but removed when that room was converted into a Library by the 6th Duke. The two boxes at the back of the room, and the gallery above, are part of the original furnishing of the room. One was used by Queen Victoria when she attended a ball here in 1843. The room was subsequently used for entertainment of various kinds.

This room has featured on the BBC2 Culture Show, shown on March 9th 2006

In 1896, the 8th Duke of Devonshire commissioned William Hemsley, a leading London designer and supplier of ‘theatrical scenery and appliances’, to fit the room out as a theatre, with a permanent stage, stage equipment, a painted proscenium and front drop curtain, and a number of sets. Most of these remain, and are extremely rare survivors of late-19th century scenery. Between 1898 and 1907, the theatre was used regularly during the winter visits of the Prince and Princess of Wales (later King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra), with performances of plays, dance and music to entertain the royal house parties.

The theatre will not be open to day visitors in 2006.

From 1989 to 2005, the room was used for textile conservation. The room was recently cleared and cleaned in readiness for a number of private, ticketed events. During 2006, we will be holding events of different kinds before deciding how the theatre might be used from 2007 onwards. Any public events will be advertised on this website.