'Music and laughter' - We visited Cannock's Prince of Wales Theatre for an emotional final show before the last curtain call

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The Prince of Wales Theatre came from humble beginnings in 1984, replacing the town's former theatre, The Forum, quickly gaining popularity and becoming a centre for the arts and culture for more than 40 years.

The venue was a cornerstone of Cannock, drawing many people from around the UK to see shows that were being hosted in its halls.

However, the tragic closure of the much-loved theatre was announced in 2024 as part of Cannock Chase Council's attempts to close a £1.3 million budget gap for the 2025/26 period.

On Tuesday (April 29) the theatre hosted its last booked show before dropping its curtain for the final time.

Hundreds of people turned out to see 'The Music and Laughter Show', featuring musicians and comedians, Doug Parker, Martin Lewis and Steve Ashcroft, with many saying the show was a 'fitting end' for the venue.

Talking about the final show, Lisa Coleman, 67, from Cannock, said: "It's such a shame. I don't really understand why they are closing it, It's so popular.

"But, I think this is a fitting last show really. They have been playing here for years, they are local and everyone loves them. It's going to be emotional, but it's fitting I think."

The show was amazing, featuring covers of popular '60s and '70s tracks mixed with comedy to keep people smiling, despite the sad circumstances.

Friends and regular theatre visitors, Joe Langley, Becky O'Connor, Janet Brittle and Sharon Beck, all from Cannock, said: "We have been coming here for years and years.

"It's terrible really, it's so convenient when you're local. I don't think it would have taken a lot to refurbish it either, the auditorium is fine. We had beer festivals here at one point. It's so popular. It's a shame."

As the trio of musicians sang and talked on the stage, it was hard to imagine that the venue would close for the final time only a few hours later.

At the intermission, Thomas Rogers, 56, of Walsall, said: "It's hard to think about. There are so many people in there laughing and singing and clapping, but all of this won't be here after today.

"I guess that's what this theatre was about though. Taking you away from the stresses of life and bringing some joy, culture and music to your day. It's sort of bittersweet in a way."

The theatre hosted its internal farewell show, named 'The Final Curtain Call... For Now!' on Saturday (April 27) hinting at a possible return in the future.

Adam and Beverley Morris, 67 and 60, of Cannock, said: "We have seen these about seven times now. It's always a packed show. People love them.

"It's a shame that the theatre is closing. Look around, everyone is having a good time and enjoying themselves, it's good, clean fun, that's what this theatre is. We hope it can return."

Council leader, Councillor Tony Jackson, said negotiations are ongoing with a number of groups for the potential take-over of the theatre.