Dame Judi Dench visit is celebrated in style
Last night the Grand Opera House welcomed York’s most celebrated star of stage and screen, Dame Judi Dench, with a seat dedication put in place to honour her visit.
Alongside the legendary Gyles Brandreth, Dame Judi performed to a packed auditorium, filled with excited locals and far-afield visitors alike – all gathering to hear Dame Judi’s renditions of her incredible career and a wonderful sprinkling of sonnets and songs.
Audience member, Alison, who watched the show from the Ambassador Box, said: “She is such an amazing lady. A true legend and a night to remember. Judi and Gyles are so natural and comfortable together with such warmth. We felt very honoured and lucky to be here.”
To celebrate this memorable event, the theatre has dedicated a seat to York’s superstar – with Dame Judi choosing her preferred seat number. This is the very first seat dedication at the venue since the theatre was refurbished in 2022.
The evening will be one to remember for a long time to come and, if you end up sitting in A9 in the Dress Circle, be sure to look out for a special gold plaque!
Further information about seat dedications here.

