This building, erected in 1750, was formerly the Theatre Royal managed by the celebrated John Palmer MP, originator of the mail coach system and holder of the first Royal Patent ever granted to a provincial theatre, to its stock company, for a period of four years (1778-82) belonged the renowned Sarah Siddons, with her husband and sister. Here also appeared her brothers, John Philip Kemble and Stephen Kemble. Here John Henderson and R. W. Elliston both made their first appearances on the stage and were for a long time leading actors. Samuel Foote, George Frederick Cooke, William Dimond, Benjamin Engledon, George and MrS. Bartley, and many other famous players also acted in this theatre, which was closed in 1805.