Today I went on an organised  tour around London's Alexandra Palace -  'back stage'.  

The most interesting place for me  was the old Victorian theatre which is jaw-droppingly stunning.  It is not open to the public normally, and few people are even aware that it exists.

The deep, rich colours of the peeling paintwork give it a romantic feel.  There is talk of 'sensitive' restoration if the lottery bid is successful.   

It's quite spectacular when you come through the Ice Rink reception, then go through a small door to the theatre's reception area.  You just don't expect to be confronted with such a beautiful space.

The theatre is massive - I heard someone say it is bigger than Drury Lane Theatre.  

The stage is huge - we were allowed to go up onto it -  and apparently some of the original machinery for winching up scenery and making things disappear 'in a puff of smoke' is still intact.  

Hopefully,  all this is going to be restored and put to work in the near future -  It is certainly North London's best kept secret at the moment.  

This picture above shows a bit of the gorgeous ceiling.  

Here's one of the doors.

If this lovely theatre gets refurbished then what an amazing addition this is going to be to an already vibrant 'Ally Pally'.  

If anyone would like to know a bit more about Ally Pally here's a linkto an article I wrote