The Phoenix Theatre, standing beside the Royal Hotel in Ross-on-Wye, has been called a wonderful gem tucked away in a corner of the town, and like a jewel it has many facets.

It started in 1921 when the newly formed Ross Operatic and Dramatic Society began performing in the Corn Exchange, and later the Roxy Cinema. But when the old fire station site became available, the company was ready to buy it and opened in its new permanent home in 1983.

Building on their growing success, they added the foyer and bar and in 2002 the Society was renamed The Phoenix Theatre Company.

The Phoenix is much more than an amateur theatre, it has become a centre for quality entertainment. In addition to drama productions, musical revues and concerts are regularly given by The Phoenix Singer and installation of cinema technology means the latest film releases are screened fortnightly.

Read the full story in this week’s Ross Gazette