The theatre was purpose built for Newport Playgoers Society in 1967, following a re-development of Newport Town Centre, which included the demolition of the previous theatre, known as The Newport Little Theatre, which was housed in a converted church.

With a 400 seater auditorium, 38 foot pros arch stage, three large rehearsal rooms, orchestra pit, bar, box-office, cafeteria, council room, extensive dressing-rooms, and newly furnished 60 seater studio, the Dolman Theatre offers facilities for all theatrical styles, and is a hub of amateur theatre and performing arts in South East Wales.