SEAFORD MUSICAL THEATRE
History & Memories
See Also
A History of Seaford Operatic Society by Pat Berry
Memories of Seaford Operatic 1956 - 1960 by Graham Tubb
A Brief History of Seaford Children's Theatre by Graham Tubb
It was in 1926 that a town's meeting called by Mr F S Stammers, listened to his proposal that an Operatic Society should be formed, but that proposal was turned down on the score of expense. Notwithstanding this rebuff, Mr Stammers, ably backed by Mr William Allen and a few other enthusiasts, went to work on the idea, and in 1927 produced their first opera, "H.M.S. Pinafore", showing, at the close of the run, a profit of £56.
Since that year the Society has prospered, going on from one success to another. Even during the Second World War the good work still went on. Seaford was one of the few Societies that carried on, providing varied entertainments for the troops billeted in the town and the surrounding district.
In the early days shows were held in the Queen's Hall and when that was no longer available, Seaford Head School Hall was used. Rehearsals were held at many and various Halls.
(From 'A Seaford Sketchbook: The Drawings of H H Evans', entitled 'After the Flood 1875')
But in 1983 the Barn, which at the time was a warehouse & cottage, was put up for sale. The Society approached the local Council with an offer to purchase but could not meet their price. Eventually they were allowed to lease the property. They set out to raise money for building materials, the cost of which was estimated at £25,000.
(From the 1984 Programme - the original now hangs in the Theatre)
The first show to be performed at the new venue was Gilbert & Sullivan's 'The Mikado' in May 1983. The programme for the show states 'we realise it is not as comfortable as you would like it but we are determined to do something about this. The next phase, namely the building of the extension to house the stage, foyer, bar, etc., will cost somewhere in the region of £50,000.'
(From Seaford Gazette April 1984)
With the help of Manpower Services the stage, foyer and dressing rooms were added. The Society then heard of a Trust Fund that might be available. The family who had set up the trust were great Gilbert & Sullivan fans and they donated the money to purchase the Barn. For three years the members spent all their spare time working at painting, wiring, concreting - every practical talent was brought into play - plus fund-raising to pay off additional bank loans - and putting on shows.
By 1999 further improvements had been made. A contribution from Seaford Film Society and a further loan enabled the Society to increase the size of the lighting/projection booth in order to house film projectors in addition to lighting consoles. On November 6th there was gala re-opening to unveil the theatre's 'new' tiered seating and carpets which were a gift as the result of a refit at the Dome Theatre, Brighton.
But by 2005 the original 100-year old roof was in a bad state of repair and needed to be completely replaced or the Theatre would have to be closed due to leaks. Lottery grants were rejected so an urgent appeal for donations was launched. Seaford Rotary Club thankfully came to the rescue with a cheque for £3,000.
