The Alexandra Theatre was built by William Coutts in 1901. It struggled initially with little public support and was sold just a year later to Lester Collingwood, a flamboyant man of means.
Under Collingwood’s stewardship, the theatre prospered and became one of Birmingham’s most popular venues, largely due to his understanding of theatre and his larger-than-life personality. Unfortunately, Collingwood was killed in a motor accident, and following his death the theatre’s popularity declined.
In 1911, the Alexandra came under new ownership when it was purchased by Leon Salberg, who was just 36 years old. He ran the theatre with the help of his two brothers-in-law, Joshua and Julius Thomas. The trio enjoyed success, and even during the First World War the theatre continued to prosper.
As public tastes changed, the theatre adapted, and in 1935 it was rebuilt with an Art Deco auditorium to meet increased demand.
Leon Salberg died in his office at the theatre in 1938, after which Derek Salberg took over the day-to-day running. The Salberg family continued to operate the Alexandra until 1977.
The theatre was eventually sold to Apollo Leisure, the UK’s largest theatre group at the time, in the 1990s. Today, this Edwardian-style theatre remains one of Birmingham’s main performance venues. With a seating capacity of 1,347, it is well known for the quality of its productions and musicals.
Station Street
Birmingham
B5 4DS
Tel: 0121 643 5536
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