Having just read the Dorset Echo’s report on the current financial position of the Pavilion theatre, I feel that the end may well be nigh.
My observation is based on the fact that this 900-plus theatre is finding it difficult to put ‘bums on seats’ in sufficient numbers frequently and there lies the problem.
It stands out a mile that while every intention is to introduce a variety of shows, the selection being offered on a scale of 1-10, rises rarely above 3.
Also, it cannot be ignored that should any non-driver wish to attend an evening performance, access via a long walk there and back is not something some would relish, so the position of the theatre doesn’t help.
Sixteen years ago, a 500-seat theatre opened in my old home town. Fifty per cent of the staff were voluntary as in Friends of the Castle Theatre, which saved on running costs.
The Friends invested financially to help initially (as I did). Acts of a much higher calibre than have been seen at the Pavilion packed the place with ‘sold out’ notices being shown within hours of the program being announced.
Sadly though, even that theatre is fighting to remain as either big names charge too much, or they require larger venues and as such, like the Pavilion, they have had to resort to either shows that have a lesser pull, or films.
I am not suggesting the Pavilion should go along the route of showing films to supplement its income but I suppose nothing should be ruled out if there is a chance it can be saved.
The area where the Pavilion is situated is known as the Festival Pier (so they tell me) and I’m beginning to wonder if now that we are to have the observational tower, the whole area should undergo a complete revamp and remove the theatre and build it in a more central position.
Weymouth does need some form of theatre, maybe not as big, maybe not on the same site, but a theatre for a prime resort such as ours is a must.
C HOBBS, Doncaster Road, Weymouth
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