Weymouth Pavilion

Weymouth Pavilion, a gem nestled between the serene Weymouth Harbour and the bustling Weymouth Beach, stands as a beacon of entertainment and cultural heritage in Dorset. With its rich history, diverse programming, and stunning location, this theatre complex is a must-visit for anyone exploring the south coast of England.

The Early Days: The Pavilion and The Ritz (1908-1954)

The story of Weymouth Pavilion begins in 1908 when the original pavilion was constructed in response to Weymouth’s growing popularity as a seaside resort. Built of timber with a steel frame, the pavilion was a marvel of its time, costing £14,150. It officially opened its doors on 21 December 1908, quickly becoming a hub of entertainment for locals and visitors alike.

In 1914, the council leased the theatre to Ernest Wheeler, who managed it for twenty-five years. During this period, the pavilion faced competition from the newly opened Alexandra Gardens Theatre in 1924, prompting it to begin screening films to attract more visitors. The pavilion's role shifted during World War II, when it was requisitioned by the military and used for various purposes, including housing 800 Moroccans from the French army and serving as a medical centre during the evacuation of the Channel Islands. It even sustained bomb damage in an air raid in April 1942.

Post-war, the pavilion was leased to the Buxton Theatre Circuit in 1947 and rebranded as The Ritz in 1950. However, tragedy struck in 1954 when a fire, caused by the misuse of a blow-lamp, destroyed the building. The damage was extensive, and the cost was estimated at around £80,000. The remains were demolished, marking the end of an era.

The Rebirth: Weymouth Pavilion (1958-1960)

After much debate and anticipation, the construction of a new theatre and ballroom began in September 1958. Designed by Samuel Beverley, the new pavilion was built at a cost of £154,000. A competition to name the new venue resulted in the name Weymouth Pavilion being chosen over The Normandy. The new pavilion officially opened on 15 July 1960, with the ballroom having opened shortly before.

Modern Developments and Challenges (2006-2012)

In 2006, plans were announced for a £135-million redevelopment scheme to revitalize the pavilion and its surroundings in time for the 2012 Olympic Games. The ambitious project included a new theatre, a World Heritage Site visitor centre, a new ferry terminal, a hotel, an undercover car park, a shopping arcade, apartments, and a marina. However, the economic recession led to the cancellation of the scheme in 2009.

In 2012, a new £160-million redevelopment plan was proposed by Jeffrey Heintz of White Knight, but the onset of the 2012 Olympic Games prevented any redevelopment from going ahead. The Borough Council then considered options for cost-saving on the Pavilion site, including the possibility of demolition and replacement with a car park. This sparked local campaigns and petitions to save the pavilion.

Community Handover and Revival (2012-present)

In 2013, the council decided to hand over the pavilion to the community rather than demolish it. Following a formal tender process, local businessman Phil Say successfully bid to run the theatre as a nonprofit business operated by a newly formed Community Interest Company. The pavilion reopened to the public on 13 July 2013, marking a new chapter in its history.

Under its new management, the pavilion has thrived. By January 2015, visitor numbers had more than doubled, with over 300,000 visitors and 60,000 tickets sold in 2014. The Christmas pantomime Snow White in January 2016 became the pavilion's most commercially successful show, topping box office records set by the previous year's pantomime Aladdin.

Today, Weymouth Pavilion offers a wide-ranging programme that includes stand-up comedy, live music, tribute acts, plays, opera, and touring musicals such as Blood Brothers and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. The venue also features a 988-seat theatre, a 600-capacity ballroom known as the Ocean Room, the Piano Bar restaurant, the Ritz Cafe, and various function and meeting rooms.

Visiting Weymouth Pavilion

Weymouth Pavilion is more than just a theatre; it is a cultural landmark that embodies the spirit and resilience of the Weymouth community. Whether you're catching a live performance, attending a ballroom event, or simply enjoying a meal at the Piano Bar, the pavilion offers something for everyone. Its picturesque location at the end of The Esplanade, with views of the harbour and beach, makes it an ideal spot for a memorable day out.

In conclusion, Weymouth Pavilion is a testament to the enduring appeal of live entertainment and community spirit. Its rich history, diverse programming, and stunning location make it an essential destination for anyone visiting Weymouth. So, come and experience the magic of Weymouth Pavilion – a place where history and entertainment come together in perfect harmony.