The Theatre
"The atmosphere in this place, you can't beat! Stay kind to it and treasure it all you can ... "Bruce Forsyth
Although bands had performed during the summer on the site where Babbacombe Theatre now stands, it wasn't until 1920 that a small bandstand was built. This was followed in 1935 by a larger structure with a canvas awning and although an improvement on the alfresco concerts the inevitable wind and rain did its worst, so in 1938 the BABBACOMBE DOWNS CONCERT HALL was built and it remained virtually unchanged for almost 50 years, until the present management took over in 1986 when improvements started to be made to enable productions to be staged.
During the last twenty two years the theatre has seen names such as Jethro, Jimmy Tarbuck, Lenny Henry, Elkie Brooks, Steeleye Span, Showaddywaddy & The Drifters. The Babbacombe Theatre also brought stars from West End hit musicals such as 'Phantom of the Opera', 'Me & My Girl', 'Cats' and 'Les Miserables' to headline their own musical shows, and in 2001 Bruce Forsyth appeared, to the total surprise of the audience whilst filming his autobiographical television documentary.
For information on the young people who have gone on to perform on the West End and Internationally, click on HALL OF FAME.
Onward and Upwards
Since MATTHEWS PRODUCTIONS took over the theatre, they have extended the season it now has the longest running summer season in the country, which lasts nine months. However, with the visiting shows providing early and late dates as well as the now regular Christmas Show the theatre has productions running virtually throughout the year.
The theatre has
• Access for the disabled with a disabled toilet.
• Wheelchair spaces.
• Loop system
• Sundries, confectionery and soft drinks to buy
• Enjoy a pre-show meal or drink in the interval or after the show at the Babbacombe Inn, literally across the road and only a 30 seconds walk. It is advisable to book prior to your visit to the theatre and if you redeem your voucher on your ticket holder against your pre show meal for two, you can get a free bottle of wine, to contact the Babbacombe Inn call on 01803 316200.
The Babbacombe Downs also has many fine pubs and restaurants that offer great food and a sociable environment to enjoy a relaxing drink. They are:
• The Old Coach House.
• Wilson’s, Angels
• the Downs Hotel
• The Princes Bar at the Regency Hotel
• The Buccaneer
• Oasis Bar at the Sefton Hotel
• Norcliffe Hotel Patio Bar
• Cliff Railway Café
• Oddicombe Beach Café
• Just off of the Downs try out Award Winning fish & Chips at Hanbury’s Fish Restaurant.
