Arts Theatre — Theatre in Cambridge

The Arts Theatre is a 648-seat theatre on Peas Hill, in central Cambridge. With its location close to the University of Cambridge and local shops, the area around the Arts Theatre retains a lively, cultural feel. The Arts Theatre is known for staging a diverse range of professional and amateur productions. Locals and visitors alike enjoy evening performances and the annual Christmas pantomime. It's a key cultural venue in Cambridge, offering entertainment for many tastes.

About The Venue

Established in 1934, the Arts Theatre originally served as a live performance venue, and continues to do so today. The theatre benefited from a recent redevelopment supported by landmark funding and a donation from Mark Pigott KBE. Arts Theatre Cambridge features a contemporary decor with traditional art deco details. The interior maintains a moderate noise level with warm lighting, creating an intimate atmosphere. The space can hold 648 people. It is home to the Marlowe Society and frequently hosts Cambridge University’s productions, as well as professional theatre companies. It provides an engaging space for a diverse audience.

Typical Experiences

The Arts Theatre offers a dedicated space for theatre, making it ideal for an evening out. The venue is popular with both locals and visitors looking for culture and entertainment. With its craft cocktail bar, Arts Theatre provides refreshments before or during events. The annual Christmas pantomime is a signature event, creating a lively atmosphere. The 648-seat theatre provides an immersive experience for a varied programme of plays, music and events. The Arts Theatre welcomes groups, families and individuals seeking an engaging evening.

Notable Features

  • Redevelopment project with landmark funding and awards
  • Donation from Mark Pigott KBE for transformational development
  • Lighting crew presence
  • Creative influx during key shows
  • Annual Christmas pantomime
  • Home to Marlowe Society and university plays
  • Historic founding by Keynes
  • Art deco interior
  • 762-seat capacity
  • Craft cocktail bar

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Information about this venue is based on publicly available sources and may be incomplete. Last updated in June 2026.