The world-famous City Varieties Music Hall is regarded by many as being one of the finest comedy and music venues in Britain, due to its intimate atmosphere and ‘brutally honest’ audience. Your Yorkshire Evening Post takes a peak behind the curtain to showcase the fascinating stories behind its rich history and heritage. READ MORE: Watch - Secrets of Leeds Queens Hotel revealed including hidden tunnel LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
7. Vesta Victoria
Born in Leeds, her father W.J Lawrence, owned the lease of City Varieties during the late 1880s. Was invited to perform at the first Variety Performance in 1912 in front of King George V and even had a street named after her in San Francisco. | Getty Photo: Getty
8. Striptease
With the popularity of cinema and TV, City Varieties presented striptease & nude shows to compete. Models were not allowed to move on stage, so moving props such as swings and bicycles were used to create an illusion of movement. | other Photo: City Varieties
9. The Good Old Days
Over the years, the Varieties became known for quality entertainment, attracting stars of the highest calibre. It is probably best known for hosting the BBCs The Good Old Days from 1953 to 1983. | other
10. Pantomimes
Pantomimes date back to at least the early 1940s. One famous tale exists of a woman giving birth during a performance of Babes in the Wood in 194. Legend has it that the child was gifted free admission for life! | jpimedia
11. Regeneration (2009-2011)
The venue enjoyed a major multi-million pound refurbishment which was supported by many famous faces including Paul Merton, Moira Stewart and Nicholas Parsons. | jpimedia
12. Management books
Found during the refurbishment it records a trapeze artist called Onzalo, who fell on his first night, a comedian who was too drunk to perform and a comedienne who was not worth the money. | other