Bristol theatres are springing up in the most unlikely of places. On Chandos Road in Redland, the Little Black Box has its home in an empty shop. On St Michael’s Hill in Kingsdown, the Wardrobe is housed in the upper echelons of the White Bear pub in a disused storeroom.
Later this year, a venue more known for providing live music and excuses to stand on tables with an oversized beer glass in hand is getting a brand new theatre.
The Bierkeller Theatre will begin life with a Christmas show in mid-December. After that, it will be running a season of professional productions with runs from national and international companies, followed by a month dedicated to Bristol fringe companies, universities and stage schools.
However well established they may or may not be, companies are being invited to apply for the Bierkeller’s inaugural season.
“Without preconceptions or the scruples of traditional theatre, the Bierkeller’s evocative performances will draw from a wide range of artistic disciplines and worldwide influence,” says artistic director Alex MacMillan.
“Our aim is to form a season teeming with artistic innovation and cultural diversity, selecting only the most exciting companies. In addition, the Bierkeller is an opportunity for local companies to perform on a large professional platform and directly contribute to the Bristol stage.
“Moreover, for every production the building will be completely transformed, carrying the audience into the world of the performance.”
In these tough financial times, opening a new 400-seater theatre is a brave move, but it is yet another sign that theatre in Bristol is in rude health.
Bristol Culture 
Why do you bother?
Where the friggin heck is the bierkeller?? And also, bristol blogger, why do YOU bother leaving r-tard messages??