City Varieties Music Hall

I always visit here when I return to Leeds probably the only unspoilt or intact music hall outside London, as most were converted during the Great War to cinamas and dance halls as my late uncle malcolm Ross did in Whitby with his two music halls Whitby Empire and the coloseum in station Square. A very rare survivor of the 3 Leeds theatres that were this and the Grand theatre which I've visited many times in the days of opera North survive the saddest loss was Leeds Empire in briggate. It was a pleasure to visit and have b fast brunch in the Swan Public House beneath it on Swan Street guided tours are done out of hours and theatre opens in afternoon. There are regular performances of many eclectic plays dramas musical events to suit many tastes and good thought provoking drama too the stucco gilding on ceilings and galleries is Exeptional for a music hall and visibility for performances Exeptional whatever the quality of stall you have the, staff are wonderful and are only too happy to help show around there is, a great pride here and in Leeds of this place and so there should be it hosted many stars in the good old days which ran for so long in the 70s and pantomime too is a tradition here lovely place we both loved our visit and the hospitality of the Swan below food was good and so was the coffee and service

A gorgeous theatre with stunning architecture. However, I was shocked and saddened at two of the below reviews that chose to focus on staff appearance and mannerisms rather than the show.
Now, I understand that it is natural to comment on staff experience at such things. HOWEVER, I attended the same show and DID NOT have the same experience with the same member of staff.
Quite frankly, to comment on someone’s appearance without knowing them from Adam is shameful considering the society we live in today. You do not know that person, and I certainly hope that this member of staff never reads your vitriol. Appearance is irrelevant in this whether they are tattooed to the high heavens or not. Your opinions on appearance should be kept to yourself at all times, especially concerning manners of weight. How rude.

NOW - to focus on MY version of the evening.
The member of staff in question explained that the gas had run out, and instead of being rude, I simply chose to have another drink. Truthfully, it should be a staff member in a managerial position to be concerned with gas and to ensure that the gas is ready for every single shift.
Every single member of staff in this venue is wonderful and helpful, and could not go above and beyond for myself and other members of the audience.
I’m rather fond of Irish music, having been known to attend a Cailedgh or two in the past. I particularly enjoyed the show. Making sure I was back for the second part of it rather than harassing the bar staff further.

This is a venue that I will certainly return to for many more shows, and hope the member of staff that has been thrown to the dogs in two reviews, is having a lovely week and is enjoying their job regardless of the people who attend.

An absolute gem of a place. Went to see Gary Delaney and as the stage is so close to the stalls and the rest of the circle / boxes are really close also, it makes stand up a really personal thing.

Gary was naturally on top form with close to the knuckle jokes and I need to see him further away to see if his routine follows a similar path.

Absolutely brilliant evening, I only wish I could remember more of his jokes.

We went to see Dick Whittington Rock & Roll Panto. I've always wanted to go to The City Varieties but never had the chance before. Its a fantastic little theatre & every seat feels as though you can touch the stage.
The panto was excellent, laugh out loud funny, & the actors super talented to play multiple instruments so well. We will definitely be booking for next year's show.

Wonderful small theatre. For those unfamiliar with Leeds, the theatre may be difficult to find. It's located on a narrow alley behind Tesco marked for the White Swan pub. View shown are seats 7 / 8 row C in the Upper Circle.

Our annual pilgrimage to City Varieties. This place is truly a hidden gem. Like stepping back in time. Such a beautiful building. The staff are amazing.

The Rock n Roll Panto gets better every year; it never lets us down. This year was exceptional- great music, incredibly talented performers and hilarious.

Will 100% be back next year. Thank you!

Went to the Dick Whittington production at the City Varieties Leeds last night. What a great showdespite some illness amongst the cast requiring last minute changes they did a fantastic job! Highly recommended just what you'd hope for in a pantomime and in a beautiful theatre too.

Just amazing , we went to watch Robin Hood rock n roll panto , this is the 4th panto here that we have brought our 2 children and their nanna to,
and already booked next year's. What an amazing cast , fabulous show , so funny for adults and children. Amazing evening out, definitely recommend!!

Really enjoyed a first visit to this charming theatre in the centre of Leeds, to see Clinton Baptiste. Good views from most areas, as it only seats 467 people. Very friendly and helpful staff, it's a real step back in time. As with most theatres, the bar prices are steep.

Really loved it, had a fab night there. Nice venue and knowledgeable staff. Only thing that spoilt it slightly was a crazy lady who caused a scene insisting we were in HER seats. Fortunately an usher came a long and guided her to her actual seat, then we didn't have any more trouble .