subject: A regal good night out [print this page] Author: John Tarr Author: John Tarr
If you fancy injecting some culture into your trip to Nottingham, head for the Royal Centre. Even if you dont take the opportunity to take in a show, the area is buzzing with creative types radiating arty vibes. The Royal Centre is home to two of Nottinghams leading arthouses, conveniently placed together so you dont have to roam far to find your ideal culture shot. Theatre Royal was established over 200 years ago by two Nottingham lace dressers with a shared ambition to build a temple of drama. This Corinthian-columned Victorian vision first raised its curtain in 1856 and is now regarded as one of the best touring venues in the country. With a speciality in musicals, Theatre Royal is credited for staging the world premiere of The Mousetrap in 1952 before it moved to the West End and became the longest-running theatrical production in the world. Sharing centre stage is the Royal Concert Hall, which hosts world-leading orchestras, comedians, dance acts, rock bands and solo singers. Previously the Empire Palace of Varieties, this contemporary auditorium was built in 1980 and first opened its doors in 1982 with Elton John as its first act. The latest landmark to share the Royal Centre spotlight is leisure complex The Cornerhouse. Built in 2001, its bursting with bars, restaurants, cinema complex and casino. A particular highlight is Saltwater, Nottinghams only rooftop restaurant and bar boasting a modern British menu with an international twist. This award-winning eatery attracts top live musicians, artists and DJs to serenade you as you enjoy spectacular panoramic views across the city. For something a little lower-key, a visit to Tamatanga urban Indian cuisine wont disappoint. Undersold as the Indian Wagamama, it mixes communal tables amidst bright pink and orange hues. Orders are taken on electronic handheld devices which beam your requests straight to the chef for a lightening-fast service, ideal for catching curtain-up. If the theatre isnt for you, you dont have to travel too far for some evening entertainment. EQ, on the former site of Jumpin Jaks is the Cornerhouse nightclub serving a mix of commercial music for all tastes. Besides its three imposing landmarks, the Royal Centre is packed with evening entertainment to suit every palette and wallet. If youre looking for another club to move on to, you cant go wrong with original superclub, Gatecrasher. Housed in a listed 1920s theatre, expect large beats over three storeys from some of the UKs most renowned artists and sets from DJs including Pete Tong and Roger Sanchez. For something a little edgier, Foremans old-school punk rock attitude takes the gleam right off this glitzy corner of town. The grubby toilets are as legendary and offensive as the music it worships. For something a little more polished, fly over to Halo, a shiny new nightclub with four rooms, a mix of fresh music and an open-air terrace for themed party and club nights. Whether you want to soak up the culture or drink in some top clubs, Royal Centre has a rich programme of acts to entertain from sun-up to curtain-down.About the Author:
