17th March 2025 marks a significant milestone for Leicester's cultural scene: the 10th anniversary of the renaming of the Phoenix Theatre to the Sue Townsend Theatre and the world premiere of "The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾ – The Musical." These events not only honoured the legacy of one of Leicester's most cherished authors but also revitalised the city's theatrical landscape.
Originally established in 1963 as the Phoenix Theatre, this venue quickly became a cornerstone of Leicester's performing arts community. Over the decades, it underwent several transformations, including a period as the Phoenix Arts Centre and later as the Upper Brown Street Theatre. In March 2015, in a heartfelt tribute to the late Sue Townsend—renowned for her creation of Adrian Mole—the theatre was aptly renamed the Sue Townsend Theatre. This renaming recognised Townsend's profound connection to the venue, where she began her writing career and penned her first award-winning play, "Womberang."
Coinciding with the theatre's renaming, "The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾ – The Musical" made its world premiere at Leicester's Curve Theatre on March 17, 2015. This musical adaptation brought to life the trials and tribulations of the quintessentially British teenager, Adrian Mole, capturing the hearts of audiences with its wit and charm.
The production received critical acclaim for its faithful yet inventive portrayal of Townsend's beloved character. Reviewers lauded the show as a "home-grown hit for the Curve," noting its distinctive charm and fidelity to the source material.
As we celebrate this 10th anniversary, we reflect on the enduring impact of Sue Townsend's contributions to literature and theatre. Her sharp wit and keen observations of British life continue to resonate, inspiring new generations of writers and performers. The Sue Townsend Theatre stands as a testament to her legacy, embodying the spirit of creativity and community that she so cherished.
Here's to a decade of the Sue Townsend Theatre and the enduring charm of Adrian Mole—a celebration of Leicester's rich cultural heritage and its bright future in the arts.