What is the Crucible Theatre in snooker?
The Crucible Theatre in Sheffield has hosted the World Snooker Championship every year since 1977. Its small, intimate setting, with the audience close to the table, has made it the most famous venue in snooker.
The Crucible opened in 1971 as a theater with a thrust stage. Its design allows spectators to sit on three sides, creating a close atmosphere.
The World Snooker Championship is held over 17 days in April and May. Matches are long, and the final is played over the best of 35 frames.
The Crucible curse
No first-time world champion has successfully defended the title the following year at the Crucible, a pattern known as the Crucible curse.
Famous Crucible moments include the 1985 final, when Dennis Taylor beat Steve Davis on the final black ball after midnight, watched by more than 18 million people on BBC Two.
Stephen Hendry and Ronnie O'Sullivan have each won the title seven times in the modern era.
There has been debate about moving the championship to a larger venue, but many players and fans want it to stay at the Crucible.