The ADC Theatre is not only Britain's oldest University playhouse seating 228, it is also one of the liveliest venues in Cambridge presenting a wide entertainment programme. Plays have been presented on the site since 1855 and the ADC Theatre is the main theatre space for the University of Cambridge; it is also the venue for a considerable amount of student drama. The theatre has helped to launch the careers of Sir Ian McKellen, Rachel Weiss, Emma Thompson and many others. There are a variety of shows most Tuesdays to Saturdays during term time, and others held on an ad hoc basis outside these periods.