Theatre Dreams
of
BABBACOMBE Theatre has seen huge changes since it opened many years ago. The site started out entertaining the masses in 1920 as a bandstand and 15 years later a canvas awning was placed over the top of it to create an alfresco feel. But with the structure being open to the elements, it wasn’t practical and three years later Babbacombe Downs Concert Hall was built in its place. The very first concert at the venue was on the afternoon of May 27, 1939, with the Earnest Gross Municipal Orchestra and BBC Baritone John Steabben, followed that evening by the opening night of the first summer show, Cabaret Revels with tickets at 3/-, 2/- and 6d. The first Sunday concert on June 4 was broadcast live on the radio with Redvers Llewellyn. During the second world war, the auditorium was used as a lecture hall for the air crew trainees of the RAF as well as being used by the the Entertainment National Service Association (ENSA) and the RAF Flying Training Command Band. This wartime use was commemorated with a plaque presented by the local RAF Association, now on display in the theatre foyer. That hall
structure remained
virtually untouched until the present management, Matpro Ltd, took over the running of the theatre in 1986. Since then, great improvements have taken place and it’s been brought into the 21st century and now stages lavish productions. Variety shows, produced by Colin Matthews,
are the theatre’s lifeblood and it generally produces two original and family-friendly shows each year, packed with magicians, comedians, dancers and top vocalists. Colin is always seeking versatile young
performers, helping develop their talents with many going on to enjoy success nationally and in the West End.
This season the theatre presents Stardust –
a production bursting with songs from some of the top musicals around and a tribute to the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. It also features fancy footwork from Danze
Fantazy and comedy and magic. It runs on various dates until October 24.
10 DEVON DIARY
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