Crucible Theatre productions are normally overseen by the Sheffield Theatres Group. The World Snooker Championship tournament has been played annually in the Crucible since 1977. The Ladies World Snooker Championship was also held at the Crucible between 1998 and 2003 but was eventually withdrawn due to financial difficulties. The venue has also hosted championships of other indoor sports, such as table tennis and squash. Crucible Theatre The Crucible Theatre (often referred to simply as "The Crucible") is a theatre in the city centre of Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England which opened in 1971, As well as theatrical performances, it hosts the most prestigious
King Edward VII Orthopaedic Hospital, Sheffield crippled children. Sheffield City Council provided extra funds when it was found that £18,000 was not sufficient to build the hospital and the Duke of Norfolk presented the land in the Rivelin Valley on which it was to be built free of charge. Building work began in 1913 with the foundation stone being laid by the Duchess of Norfolk. W.A. Kenyon was the architect and despite delays caused by the First World War the hospital opened early in 1916 and had around 120 beds along with the associated treatment rooms and operating theatre. The hospital was known as the King