88 King Street, Theatre of Varieties

1898-9 Frank Matcham Architect.
The theatre consists of 2 separate buildings linked by a bridge across Union Alley,
No 88 King Street which is the long entrance foyer extending back to Union Alley.
On the north side of Union Alley is the auditorium which is not of special interest.
The elevation to King Street is 3 storeys, terracotta, now painted. Ground floor
now has modern canopy and other fittings. Above, a free interpretation of classical
details in the manner of a C17 frontispiece.
First floor filled by a large semi-circular arched/glazed opening. Second floor
has 2 small semi-circular hooded windows flanking a semi circular hooded niche whose
hood rises into the first stage of a stepped gable. Each of the 3 steps flanked by
scrolled brackets. LISTED GRADE 2