Bristol Hippodrome show shares memories over 100 years

"My father was the assistant projectionist at the Hippodrome, which was in Bedminster before it was bombed, and in the intervals he had to get on his bike and take the news reel over to the big Hippodrome and show it, then go back to the old one again."

Adrienne Higgins' memory is just one of more than 100 which have been put together to form a show celebrating Bristol Hippodrome's centenary.

The production called "Thanks for the Memories" features contributions from people who used to work at or visit the venue.

Among the events being recreated is the fire in 1948 when the theatre was almost destroyed.

"It was only because the dome roof could be opened allowing the smoke to go up and out which meant firefighters could stay inside and save the auditorium," said Vicki Klein the show's director.

Some of the people taking part are treading the boards for the first time.

During a production of Joseph the cast had to perform in front of a jammed safety curtain

"I've worked at the theatre for four years and my earliest memory is of tripping up the stairs with a great tray of ice creams which went flying everywhere," said Martin Williamson.

"I conduct the tours there as well so to be performing on the stage as Frank Matchem, the chap who designed it, is a real honour."

For others the production is a fun reason to return to the stage.

"I play a cleaner just like I did 25 years ago only this time I'm on stage with my niece Katy and it's lovely to be together," said Susanne Donovan.

Other key events in the venue's history which feature in the show include a Sarah Bernhardt performance in 1913 when suffragettes took over the theatre and the police were called.

But there are lighter moments such as during the run of Joseph when the safety curtain got stuck during the interval and the whole cast had to perform the rest of the show in front of the iron curtain in full costumes with the camels.