The Mechanics Theatre, as it is now known, was built by public subscription in 1820, with shares available at a cost of £25. It was to have a Music Saloon on the first floor and the building was finished with the salon eventually opening in December 1823.

 

In the years that followed the building hosted a variety of concerts and events including ‘Grand Morning Concerts’, ‘Drawing Room Operas’ and lectures on various topics including ‘the Practical Applications of Electricity’

 

The Public Rooms also housed a subscription library, a savings bank and newsroom. Over the years the basement has also hosted a public dispensary and public baths.

 

Wakefield’s Mechanics’ Institution, formed in 1841 and leased the Music Saloon, for events, from June 1842.

 

Between 1955 and 2012 the building hosted Wakefield Museum’s collections and is now home to Wakefield College’s Performing Arts Department.