Crucible Theatre 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 event in professional snooker, the World Championship. The theatre was refurbished between 2007 and late 2009 and officially reopened 18 February 2010. The Crucible Theatre was built by M J Gleeson and opened in 1971, replacing the Playhouse Repertory theatre in Townhead Street. In 1967 Colin George, the founding Artistic Director of the Crucible, recommended a thrust stage for Sheffield, inspired by
Sheffield United Cricket Club at Graham Solley Sports Centre, Bawtry Road, Tinsley, Sheffield. Sheffield United Cricket Club Sheffield United Cricket Club was the first sports club or association in England to bear the word "United" in its name, common amongst association football clubs in England today. Sheffield United Cricket Club was formed in 1854, by several local cricket clubs in Sheffield uniting, thus the name. The inclusion of "United" in the name also distinguished it from the existing and longer-established Sheffield Cricket Club (circa 1751). In 1854, M. J. Ellison, agent for the Duke of Norfolk, sought to establish a cricket ground in Sheffield.