Dome celebrates its rich heritage with host of events

Brighton Dome is inviting visitors to travel back in time and discover the building’s fascinating history at a series of events starting this autumn.
By Jessica Hubbard
Published 2nd Oct 2019, 18:10 GMT
The Brighton Dome in use as a stableThe Brighton Dome in use as a stable
The Brighton Dome in use as a stable

From housing the Prince Regent’s horses to sheltering wounded soldiers, roller-skating Victorians to ABBA winning Eurovision, Brighton Dome has seen some momentous events throughout its 200-year history.

The Grade I listed building, set within the city’s Royal Pavilion Estate, has an illustrious past and is about to reveal some new and unexpected stories.

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The National Lottery Heritage Fund will support the programme as part of a £5m contribution towards refurbishment of the Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre.

Kate Richardson, participatory interpretation manager at the Dome said: “Recording and preserving the heritage of this iconic Brighton venue is so important for future generations and these events offer anyone interested in local history, or fans of theatre and music, a valuable insight into the workings of a famous venue throughout the ages.”

Backstage Tours will give behind the scenes access to Brighton Dome’s Concert Hall- from peeking into the artists’ dressing rooms and standing on the stage where legendary musicians have performed, to a rare glimpse of King George IV’s infamous secret underground tunnel.

The monthly, small group tours are led by experienced Dome staff who will reveal what goes on behind closed doors.

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Curator Dr Alexandra Loske will be holding a lunchtime talk about the Pavilion’s history and surrounding estate on Friday, October 4.

In the lead up to Remembrance Sunday, the Pavilion’s role as a military hospital during wartime will be explored at a free open day on Saturday, November 3.

The wider history of Brighton will be explored on Friday, December 6 as lecturer and researcher Dr Sue Berry talks on Brighton’s transformation from 1790-1830.

A celebration of female artists who have performed on the Dome stage in the last 150 years will be led by historian Louise Peskett on Friday, February 7. Visitors can explore the beginnings of Brighton Festival, once a street party, with former festival director Philip Morgan on Friday, April 24.

Tickets and further information can be found at brightondome.org

Related topics:Brighton Dome