It was one of the few free-standing theatres in England outside London, and probably hosted performances by the playing companies maintained by the Earls of Derby.
Local tradition points to the site of a modern landmark on Eccleston Street, the Flat Iron Building,[1] whereas the historian David George, following Bailey, placed it in the southeast corner of what was then common land known as Town Moss (just north of the modern junction of High Street and St Helens Road).
[2] Later research by Graham and Tyler, however, places it at the eastern end of the former Newgate Street, on its north side, thereby restoring it to the vicinity of the modern Flat Iron Building.
[1] The Earls of Derby were patrons of playing companies, and had a tradition of hosting performances at their principal residences, including at Knowsley Hall just north of Prescot.
[2] The playhouse was possibly the only purpose-built, free-standing theatre in England outside London at that time.