The Theatre
"The atmosphere in this place, you can't beat! Stay kind to it and treasure it all you can ... "Bruce Forsyth
Then...
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 more lavish productions to be staged.
...And Now
Recently refurbished the BABBACOMBE THEATRE, has been a valuable asset to the town for over seventy years having been renowned for wowing audiences with their highly acclaimed shows, most especially since 1986 when Matpro Limited took over the venue.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary during 2011, and Matpro's 50th production the all new show this season, 'Heatwave', (accredited with 5 star reviews), promises lots of sizzle, crackle and pop!!.
You may not be lazing on a sun-drenched beach but whilst you sit back for two hours and soak up the comedy rays as the cast surf through a cornucopia of variety which includes highlights from Les Miserable, The Beatles, Lady Gaga, Shrek the Musical, a trip on the Lazy River and a Flight from Stanstead to Derry, your theatre experience will definitely leave you 'Walking on Sunshine'!
Having worked with some of the biggest names in the world of entertainment for over 30 years, producer Colin Matthews, now actively seeks out new and versatile performers for his productions which, together with his youth policy, has resulted in the discovery and development of young talent with success nationally and in the West End for many performers that have appeared in his shows. For information on the young people who have gone on to perform on the West End and Internationally, click on the HALL OF FAME tab.
The venue with its extended season running from February to October, as well as the visiting shows providing early and late dates and the now regular Christmas Show the Babbacombe Theatre has productions running virtually throughout the year.
Throughout the year, new shows are constantly added to the diary. To keep abreast of all the shows appearing at this celebrated venue, refer to the WHAT'S ON tab.
The Box Office hours vary during the season, however when closed calls divert to the administration office.
Box Office: 01803 328 385
Email: info@babbacombe-theatre.com
Online booking fee £1- NO Credit Card charges applied
No booking fee for telephone or box office ticket sales
The theatre provides:
- 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 316 200.
BABBACOMBE ALSO HAS MANY FINE PUBS AND RESTAURANTS THAT OFFER GREAT FOOD WITH A SOCIABLE ENVIRONMENT TO ENJOY A RELAXING DRINK. WE CAN HIGHLY RECOMMEND THE FOLLOWING ESTABLISHMENTS: -
The Cary Arms, Angels, The Downs Hotel, The Berkeley at Babbacombe, Hanbury's Fish Restaurant renowned for their award Winning fish & Chips, the Oasis Bar at the Sefton Hotel, the Norcliffe Hotel's Patio Bar, The Old Coach House, The Buccaneer, the Cliff Railway Cafe, the Oddicombe Beach Cafe and finally The Royal at Bababcombe.
